Group demands accountability over Jim Obazee’s investigative overreach

The Southwest Youth Advocacy Network has reacted to recent reports of alleged overreach and misconduct by Jim Obazee, the former Special Investigator appointed by President Bola Tinubu.

Tinubu named Obazee, the former Chief Executive Officer of the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria, FRC, as the special investigator to probe the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) in June 2023.

Obazee and his team had submitted their report to the president in December 2023, indicting the embattled former CBN governor of misappropriation of fund through contract scam and other frauds.

However, an online medium had, on Thursday, published a report revealing that Obazee has carried on with his duties despite the expiration of his mandate in December 2023.

In a statement sent to journalists on Friday and signed by its convener, Seun Adeaanu, the group called on President Tinubu to take immediate action to address the issue and ensure that justice is served.

The statement read: ”The allegations of harassment, invasion of privacy, and intimidation by Jim Obazee, even after the expiration of his investigative mandate, are troubling and go against the principles of fairness, transparency, and respect for the rule of law.

”As advocates for good governance, we cannot stand idly by while such actions potentially compromise the rights of citizens.

”We urge President Bola Tinubu to thoroughly investigate these allegations and take decisive steps to rein in Jim Obazee if found culpable.

”It is essential to maintain the integrity of any investigation and ensure that individuals entrusted with such responsibilities operate within the bounds of their mandate.

”We trust that President Tinubu will address this matter promptly and take appropriate action to preserve the principles of justice and fairness.”