The National Civil Society Council of Nigeria (NCSCN) has expressed its support for President Bola Tinubu’s nomination of Amb. Ayodele Oke, a former Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), for ambassadorial appointment to the United States.
In a statement signed by Blessing Akinlosotu, Executive Director of NCSCN, the council described Oke’s nomination as “commendable”, citing his impeccable credentials and accomplishments.
Akinlosotu noted that Oke had been completely cleared of allegations of corruption by a competent court and relevant security agencies after a thorough process, emphasizing that the calls for his rejection were baseless and unjustified.
“The legal case against Oke has reached its definitive and lawful conclusion,” Akinlosotu said, adding that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had formally moved to terminate the case, and the court had struck out the proceedings, signifying a closure based on lack of evidence.
Public affairs commentator, Otunba Msuaan, has also defended Oke’s nomination, warning that rejecting it would set a dangerous precedent and undermine the rule of law.
“The escalating demands for the rejection of Oke’s confirmation represent a perilous endeavour to supplant a legitimate court verdict with a verdict of public speculation,” Msuaan said.
NCSCN has called on all security agencies, media houses, and civil society organisations to conduct proper investigations before commenting on issues, and urged President Tinubu to stand firm in defending the rule of law.
The council believes Oke’s nomination is a positive development, considering his pedigree and track record as a seasoned administrator with proven integrity and competence.