Abuja: The Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) has announced ongoing investigations into corruption cases involving former ministers, current top government officials, and senior public office holders at both federal and state levels. Dr. Abdullahi Bello, the CCB Chairman, revealed these developments in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Dr. Bello shared that the bureau has initiated investigations into several high-profile individuals, with one former minister already facing legal action. He emphasized the bureau’s cautious approach, avoiding publicizing names during the investigation phase to prevent premature media trials. The bureau has also secured interim forfeiture orders and is recording recoveries from investigations involving local government chairmen and senior state officials.
Dr. Bello addressed criticisms suggesting that Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts target only low-level offenders while sparing politically exposed individuals. He refuted these claims, affirming that ministers, senior government officials, and other high-profile individuals are currently under scrutiny. The CCB’s operations, he explained, adhere strictly to legal procedures and due process, rather than succumbing to media pressure or political biases.
Highlighting the bureau’s methodical approach, Dr. Bello cautioned against public condemnation without evidence. Drawing from his experience with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), he noted that media reports often lead to premature judgments, potentially damaging reputations. The CCB, he stated, only speaks publicly when ready to proceed to court.
Asset declaration remains a central tool in the bureau’s efforts. Dr. Bello explained that public officers must declare assets at the start and end of their tenure, allowing the CCB to detect discrepancies. Substantial unexplained increases in assets at tenure’s end trigger further investigations.
Beyond asset comparisons, the bureau also responds to public and official petitions and allegations. Dr. Bello assured that the CCB acts on credible petitions, investigating undeclared assets or unexplained income sources, which may lead to court actions.
Addressing Nigeria’s low anti-corruption rating, Dr. Bello acknowledged structural and operational challenges, including limited manpower and funding, and reliance on manual systems. With 4.5 million public servants nationwide, the bureau cannot investigate all individuals, leading to a risk-based strategy focusing on high-risk, high-profile cases to maximize impact. He emphasized that this approach is not about protecting individuals but rather about efficiently utilizing limited resources for significant results.