By Odita Sunday
The African Democratic Congress Presidential Campaign Council (ADC-PCC) has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to address an allegation that some ministers in his administration paid to secure their appointments and are now seeking to recover the money they allegedly invested.
The council said the reported claim by Mr Alwan Hassan, a spokesperson associated with the President’s political camp, raises questions about how ministerial appointments are secured and whether public office is being treated as an opportunity for personal financial gain.
In a statement signed by Kola Ologbondiyan, Director, Media and Publicity, ADC Presidential Campaign Council, the group said the allegation, reportedly made during a live television programme, should not be ignored without a clear explanation.
According to the ADC-PCC, Hassan reportedly claimed that some ministers paid money to obtain their positions and were now focused on recovering their alleged investments before turning their attention to governance.
The council argued that, if the claim is established, it would raise serious concerns about the integrity of the process used to appoint members of the Federal Executive Council.
It therefore urged Tinubu to clarify whether he was aware of the allegation, whether an investigation had begun and what steps the Presidency intended to take to establish the facts.
The ADC-PCC also challenged Hassan to explain his reported remarks publicly by identifying the ministers allegedly involved, stating the amounts said to have been paid and naming those who allegedly received the money.
The council called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to investigate any credible evidence of financial inducements linked to ministerial appointments.
It further urged the National Assembly to consider a public inquiry into the matter and invite Hassan to clarify his reported comments and present any supporting evidence.
The group stressed that its demands were not a substitute for proof or due process, but said the allegations were serious enough to warrant clarification and appropriate investigation.
It also questioned whether the reported claim was consistent with the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly as Nigerians continue to grapple with rising living costs, insecurity and economic difficulties.
According to the council, those appointed to public office should be guided by competence, integrity and a commitment to national service, rather than expectations of personal financial returns.
“Public office is a responsibility, not a commercial transaction,” the ADC-PCC said, insisting that government appointments must serve the interests of Nigerians.
The council warned that leaving the allegation unanswered could deepen public concern about accountability in government. It maintained, however, that any findings must be based on evidence and handled in accordance with the law.
With the 2027 general election approaching, the ADC-PCC urged Nigerians to pay close attention to the records, policies and accountability of political leaders.
The council also described Alhaji Atiku Abubakar’s presidential candidacy as an alternative platform for discussions on governance, economic recovery, public accountability and national renewal.
About the Author
