Tinubu Govt Not Using Anti-Corruption Agencies Against Opposition – Minister

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has dismissed claims that the Tinubu administration is weaponising anti-corruption agencies to target political opposition.

Speaking at the opening of the ICPC Roundtable on Agenda Setting for Strategic Integration of State Commissioners of Information in the Fight Against Corruption in Abuja on Wednesday, Idris stressed that the government maintains a strict policy of non-interference in the work of anti-graft bodies.

“Fighting corruption is indeed one of the 8-Point priorities of the Tinubu administration, and that is why the President is strengthening the institutional framework to fight corruption, especially through the ICPC and the EFCC,” Idris said.

“By its policy of non-interference, the Tinubu administration has made it clear that anti-corruption agencies are not instruments of political witch-hunt. They operate with independence and professionalism in line with the rule of law.”

The minister further underscored President Tinubu’s stance that corruption will not be tolerated, adding that judicial reforms are underway to curb delays in corruption trials and ensure justice is not denied or endlessly deferred.

Highlighting the theme of the roundtable, “Partnership for Strengthening Transparency and Accountability at State and Local Government Levels Through Strategic Communications,” Idris said the active involvement of state commissioners of information is crucial in promoting transparency and accountability.

He urged state governments to set aside political differences and align with the opportunities embedded in President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

“I wish to implore you all, Honourable Commissioners, that irrespective of the political party you belong to, it is important you identify with the massive opportunities inherent in the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu, who is relentless in reshaping our economy to address years of neglect, and its limitations, and in turn achieve inclusion, diversification, growth and steady development,” he said.

The minister also commended the ICPC, led by Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu, for adopting innovative communication strategies that engage stakeholders at state and local government levels to better inform citizens on government policies.