Wahab Shittu Speaks On The Rejection Of Magu By The Senate
Scroll Report – When Magu appeared the first time did he envisage any obstacle?
Shittu – When Magu appeared the first time, l never envisaged any obstacle, because he is a performer. He has unprecedented record of performance, in prosecution ,loot recovery and in terms of projecting image of the organisation. Even the high profile cases credited to Ribadu were investigation by Magu. So I felt that the senate will have largely national interest, over personal interest. But it turned out that my feeling was wrong. The senate allowed vested interest to override national interest. The DSS security report did not help matters. There are two conflicting security reports, on the same issue. One indicting and one recommending. The senate decided to pick one.
Scroll Report – What did you expect in the second appearance?
Shittu – The way and manner Magu was treated the first time did not give me any assurance that he will be treated any better. However, the senate deserves same measure of commendation for throwing the proceedings opene and allowing the senators to ask questions. In spite of that, the senate got it wrong to allow senators who are standing trial to take part in the process. It was not also proper for Bukola Saraki senate president to preside because he has allegations investigate by EFCC. The senate should have taken a vote and know how many people voted for or against Magu’s confirmation.
Scroll Report – But Magu was given an opportunity to clear himself of the allegation raised in the security report?
Shittu – To the best of my knowlegde he tried to explain himself. It is also fair to say that Magu’s credibility is higher than that of the senate. Security reports are mere allegations which are not substituted for proof. For instance senate president is still innocent until he is found guilty. So if he can preside why not Magu. The senate has no moral justification for rejecting Magu. If Senators standing trial are still participating in senate proceedings, then that is double standard. The circumstances shows that the latest report was procured. The DSS has embarrased the President, because before he was nominated he must have been cleared by the DSS. Why did the report go to the senate instead of the Executives. Why are security agencies working at cross purposes. Does that show cohesion?
Scroll Report – So what is the option now.
Shittu – The option now is to allow Magu to act indefinitely. The difference is in nomenclature. Section 11 of the Interpretation act 2004 gives Magu power to act as chairman. Section 171 of the Constitution also gives the President power to appoint persons to hold or act in the offices to which the section applies and to remove persons so appointed from any such office.
