The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has challenged the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to publicly disclose the identities of the 18 sitting governors currently under investigation for corruption-related offences. The group insists that transparency must not be selective and called out the agency for often publicizing the names and photographs of young Nigerians arrested for cybercrimes while shielding politically exposed persons.
This demand follows the recent revelation by the Executive Chairman of the EFCC during a meeting with movie producers in Lagos, where he disclosed that 18 serving governors are under probe for alleged financial infractions. He noted that prosecution would commence after the expiration of their constitutional immunity.
HURIWA, in a media statement issued by its National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, described as hypocritical and unjust the continued concealment of the governors’ identities, saying it undermines public trust and accountability. The group urged the EFCC to also publish the specific allegations made against each governor to enable whistle-blowers and citizens with useful information to come forward—provided their identities are protected, unlike in previous instances where whistle-blowers faced reprisals.
Condemning the ostentatious lifestyle of Nigeria’s ruling class, HURIWA expressed outrage over the ongoing construction of extravagant government houses by some governors amidst soaring poverty, unemployment, and economic hardship faced by the populace.
The rights group referenced a report published by The Africa Report and shared by the United States Embassy in Nigeria on its X (formerly Twitter) handle, which criticized the ruling class for excessive spending. Titled “Nigeria’s ruling class splashes billions on government houses,” the report detailed how some governors continue to fund white elephant projects while citizens struggle with the high cost of living.
Cited in the report were:
Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, who reportedly approved N63.4 billion for renovating the Government House, calling the facility “an embarrassment.”
Governor Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State, who allocated N14.9 billion for a new ultra-modern residence and N14.23 billion for a new State Assembly complex.
The U.S. Embassy, amplifying the report, stated: “Such alleged lack of fiscal responsibility fuels inequality and erodes public trust.”
HURIWA said these developments reflect a systemic disregard for the plight of ordinary Nigerians, asserting that many governors have brought shame upon the nation through wasteful and insensitive governance.
The association called for urgent reforms in the nation’s anti-corruption strategy, starting with equal treatment under the law for all suspects, regardless of political or social status.
