HURIWA: Tinubu Needs Undivided Presidency to Grow Nigerian Economy

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria  (HURIWA) has alleged that certain ‘powerful political forces’ from Lagos, are peddling false and unsubstantiated rumours against the Chief of staff to the President,  Mr. Femi Gbajabiamila.

HURIWA  also carpeted those they described as religious and ethnic bigots who are spreading false information against the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Mr. Nyesom Wike.

 HURIWA in a statement by its national coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko  said those opposing Wike because of his religious affiliations or his ethnicity are religious and ethnic bigots.

 “We, the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA), have convened this press conference today to address the recent and unsettling allegations surrounding Mr. Femi Gbajabiamila, the Chief of Staff to President Bola Tinubu.

“ These allegations suggest that Gbajabiamila has been engaged in the trading of government appointments, including the alleged replacement of appointees chosen by the president with individuals who may have offered financial inducements.

“HURIWA is committed to presenting a comprehensive perspective on these allegations, illuminating the complexities involved, and setting the record straight.

“First, it is essential to provide clarity regarding the role of a chief of staff in the office of a political leader. The chief of staff serves as a pivotal figure, closely collaborating with the president to manage numerous aspects of the administration.

“These responsibilities encompass coordinating appointments, scheduling, and acting as a liaison between the president and other government officials. Importantly, the chief of staff does not wield unilateral authority in dictating appointments; the process invariably involves multiple stakeholders,” the group said.

It said that the  allegations swirling around Gbajabiamila were not to be taken lightly, stressing that they are fraught with implications.

Huriwa further stressed that the allegations that Gbajabiamila collects money to manipulate appointments are not supported by concrete evidence.

“They appear to be driven by personal interests and political infighting rather than a genuine concern for the welfare of the nation. In fact, these allegations appear to be a distraction from the significant issues currently facing Nigeria, including ongoing litigations and the need for stability and good governance.

“We emphasise that  Tinubu, having recently triumphed in a significant legal battle that spanned over 200 days, now requires the opportunity to focus on governance rather than being embroiled in political infighting and attempts to tarnish the image of key figures responsible for steering the administration”, the group stated.