PMB, Magu and the ‘Cabal’ – by Louis Odion, FNGE

Ibrahim  Magu

Anyone still wondering why the hardworking Ibrahim Magu has not been confirmed EFCC chairman yet, one year on, could not be familiar with high-wire intrigues in Abuja. Statutorily, the Senate confirms the nomination. But the presidency originates the memo.

But the truth is emerging. Since Magu had the temerity to touch cases where members of the now familiar "cabal" nestling in the presidency had interest, there is no no urgency to forward the critical memo to the National Assembly.

Then, President Muhammadu Buhari had to be abroad on a short medical trip. The acting president, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, a pious man not given to malice but driven only by desire to get results, caused the memo to be sent the Senate.

The "cabal" was caught off-guard. Not to worry, on Buhari's return, they resolved to activate the "network" in the legislature to mount a fresh hurdle. Yes, virtually everyone nominated the same time with the EFCC boss has been confirmed.

As for Magu, the memo was not enough; he needs to bring DSS clearance as well.

There now lies the new "roadblock". The "cabal" has a foothold in DSS. The Cold War between the "cabal" and the EFCC acting chair played out in the recruitment of DSS to enforce the night raid on the homes of top judges suspected of sleaze.

Until the president reportedly directed the SSS to allow EFCC take over the matter.

It is in this light that the rest of the nation is waiting on President Muhammadu Buhari to take a step further and stop all these shenanigans. It is one thing for the political leadership to formulate policies; it is another thing to have a crop of committed disciples to implement the vision.

So far, no one can deny the commitment of Magu in providing new vigour to EFCC in the war against corruption. He has demonstrated uncommon passion for his job in the last twelve months. But as things stand today, Magu could not be said to have even an appointment letter.

It is really funny.