The Arewa Youth Integrity Forum (AYIF) has thrown its weight behind the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, urging Nigerians to allow due process to take its course amid calls for his suspension over recent bribery allegations.
The group was reacting to a statement by the media team of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, which urged President Bola Tinubu to suspend Gbajabiamila and order an independent investigation into the allegations.
In a statement issued by its National President, Alhaji Mohammed Aliyu, AYIF said it supports a full and impartial investigation into any allegation of corruption but argued that no public official should be punished before the facts are established.
Aliyu maintained that every Nigerian, regardless of status or political affiliation, is entitled to the presumption of innocence until proven otherwise through lawful processes.
The forum described calls for Gbajabiamila’s immediate suspension as premature, insisting that the matter should be handled by the appropriate investigative and legal institutions rather than through political pressure or public campaigns.
AYIF also praised Gbajabiamila’s years of public service, citing his contributions in both the legislative and executive arms of government. According to the group, his record reflects dedication to public service and should not be overshadowed by allegations that are yet to be investigated.
The organisation further urged political leaders to avoid comments capable of influencing or prejudicing ongoing or potential investigations, stressing that accountability must always be guided by evidence and the rule of law.
Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, the forum called on political stakeholders to focus more on governance and national development instead of engaging in what it described as politically charged disputes. It reaffirmed its commitment to promoting transparency, accountability and respect for due process in public office.
