Governors’ forum counters allegations, initiates legal action against former director
The Forum asserts that the allegations are already under investigation by the police and subject to a pending court case.
Governors’ forum counters allegations, initiates legal action against former director
The Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF) Secretariat finds itself embroiled in controversy as its former Director of Media and Public Affairs, Abdulrazaque Bello Barkindo, makes damning allegations of financial misappropriation, turning the spotlight on the NGF’s operations.
In a leaked letter addressed to Governor AbdulRasaq and obtained by News Point Nigeria, Barkindo accuses the NGF of deviating from its developmental role, characterizing it as more “transactional than developmental” and a “conduit pipe for a few individuals.” He demands a forensic audit of all NGF accounts, raising concerns about financial transparency and accountability.
The NGF swiftly responds to these accusations through a statement from its legal department, describing Barkindo’s claims as “inflammatory and misguided allegations” and dismissing them as a form of character assassination. The Forum asserts that the allegations are already under investigation by the police and subject to a pending court case.
The statement emphasizes that Barkindo resigned from his position on December 7, 2023, and the resignation has been officially accepted. Despite the serious nature of the allegations, the NGF seeks to reassure the public, development partners, and friends that there is no internal crisis affecting the NGF or its Secretariat.
In response to the ongoing investigation and legal proceedings, the NGF expresses its commitment to cooperating fully with the police, vowing to ensure the prosecution of any individual responsible for what it deems an “unwarranted attack.” The legal battle ensuing from these allegations underscores the challenges faced by the NGF and the potential impact on its reputation and standing in the public eye.