The Coalition of South East Youth Leaders (COSEYL), has called for an immediate and independent investigation into allegations surrounding the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, over issues relating to his enrolment as a legal practitioner and participation in the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) scheme.

The group said the call followed a petition reportedly filed before the Legal Practitioners’ Disciplinary Committee (LPDC) and the NYSC by former Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) First Vice President, John Aikpokpo-Martins.

In a statement by its President General, Comrade Goodluck Ibem, and Publicity Secretary, Comrade Okey Nwaoru, COSEYL described the allegations as serious, noting that they touch on the credibility of key national institutions, including the Nigerian Law School and the NYSC.

The group urged the LPDC and NYSC authorities to conduct transparent investigations and make their findings public, stressing that institutional integrity must be protected above individual interests.

COSEYL states clearly that these allegations must not be ignored, politicised, or swept under the carpet. The integrity of our institutions is bigger than any individual, no matter how highly placed. Public confidence in the rule of law, professional standards, and the credibility of the NYSC scheme must be protected at all costs.

The group urged the LPDC and NYSC authorities to conduct transparent investigations and make their findings public, stressing that institutional integrity must be protected above individual interests.

They added, “A thorough probe by the NYSC authorities to ascertain the authenticity of all relevant records. The public release of findings upon conclusion of the investigations.

“Given the high office occupied by the Deputy Speaker, COSEYL strongly advises that he steps aside from his position pending the outcome of these investigations. This is not a declaration of guilt but a necessary step to ensure that the process is free from any perception of interference or undue influence.

“In advanced democracies, public officials temporarily relinquish their offices when serious allegations arise in order to preserve the sanctity of the institutions they serve. Nigeria should not be an exception.

“We wish to emphasize that our position is guided solely by the need to uphold transparency, accountability, and the rule of law. This matter transcends partisan politics and regional considerations.

“However, should there be any attempt to frustrate or suppress a fair investigation, COSEYL will be left with no option but to mobilize lawful and peaceful civic actions to demand accountability.

“We reaffirm that any such action will be conducted within the ambit of the law and democratic principles. Nigeria’s institutions must be protected. No individual is greater than the law.”