Alleged Acquisition Of Properties In Abuja Strategic Areas: Probe Pantami Now, Group To EFCC, ICPC
From Muhammad Kabir Kano
A Civil Society Group, Concerned Gombe Citizens, has called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to investigate former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami, over allegations surrounding the acquisition of multiple high-value properties in Abuja.
The group made the demand in a statement signed by its convener, Ibrahim Ilyas Kaltungo on Monday, urging both anti-graft agencies to conduct what it described as a thorough, impartial and transparent investigation into reports alleging that the former minister acquired expensive residential properties in the Wuse area of the Federal Capital Territory.
According to the group, although the claims remain allegations, the reports and public discussions surrounding the alleged acquisitions warrant scrutiny by the relevant anti-corruption agencies in the interest of transparency and accountability.
The statement noted that public office is a sacred trust and that officials entrusted with managing public resources should be prepared to account for their assets and financial dealings whenever questions arise.
It added that where there are concerns about unexplained wealth or assets that appear disproportionate to legitimate earnings, the appropriate authorities have a duty to establish the facts through lawful investigations.
Concern Gombe Citizens urged the EFCC and ICPC to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the allegations, determine whether the properties were lawfully acquired and whether their acquisition complied with Nigeria’s anti-corruption, public procurement and asset declaration laws.
The group also called on the agencies to examine all relevant financial records, property ownership documents and sources of funding connected to the alleged acquisitions, and to make the outcome of any investigation public in the interest of accountability and public confidence.
The group said, “We therefore urge the EFCC and ICPC to: Conduct a comprehensive investigation into the allegations regarding the acquisition of luxury properties linked to Dr. Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami.
“Determine whether the properties were lawfully acquired and whether their acquisition complied with Nigeria’s anti-corruption, public procurement, and asset declaration laws; Examine all relevant financial records, property ownership documents, and sources of funding connected to the alleged acquisitions.
“If any violations of the law are established, appropriate legal action should be taken without fear or favour. Nigeria’s anti-corruption agencies must demonstrate that no individual is above the law, regardless of previous office, political affiliation, or public influence.
Selective justice weakens public confidence, while impartial investigations strengthen democratic institutions and reinforce accountability. Concerned Gombe Citizens remains committed to promoting transparency, good governance, and the responsible management of public resources. We believe that fighting corruption requires consistency and equal application of the law to all Nigerians.
“We therefore respectfully urge the EFCC and ICPC to treat these allegations with the seriousness they deserve and to carry out an independent investigation in accordance with the Constitution and all applicable laws.”
