The Nigeria Youth Patriots (NYP) have expressed utter disappointment and embarrassment over the recent arrest of the newly elected Chairman of Ogbaru Local Government Area in Anambra State, Mr. Franklin Ikechukwu Nwadialo, by US Authorities for allegedly running a $3.3 million romance scam.
In a statement signed by the organization’s National Coordinator, Comrade Amb. Timothy Nwachukwu LLB, the NYP described the development as a national shame and a dent on the image of Nigeria and its people abroad.
“We are appalled by the news of the arrest of the Ogbaru Local Government Chairman in the United States for engaging in criminal activities. This is a clear indication that the scourge of corruption has eaten so deep into our system and even our elected leaders are not exempted,” the statement read.
The NYP therefore called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offence Commission (ICPC) and the code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) to urgently beam their searchlight on Local Government Chairmen across the country, with a view to unraveling any hidden criminal activities they may be engaged in.
“It is our strong belief that this particular case is just a tip of the iceberg. There are many more like him hiding under the cover of political immunity to perpetuate fraud and bring disrepute to our nation,” the statement continued. “We urge the EFCC, ICPC and CCB not to spare anyone found guilty of economic crimes, no matter how highly placed.”
The NYP also commended the United States authorities for their diligent efforts in apprehending and bringing the alleged fraudster to book, saying their actions show that the world is now a global village where crime has no hiding place.
“Let this be a warning to all those who think they can engage in nefarious activities and tarnishing the good name of Nigeria. The long arm of the law will eventually catch up with them, no matter where they run to,” the statement warned.
The group finally called on Nigerians to join hands in the fight against corruption, saying it is only through collective efforts that the nation can redeem its battered image and become a force to reckon with in the comity of nations.
