By Abubakar Yunusa
The Northern Emancipation Network (NEN) is urging Nigerian Governors to thoroughly investigate the allegations against A. B. Okauru, the Director-General of the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF), and take appropriate action to rectify the situation.
The group also highlights the unjust treatment of Abdulrazaque Bello Barkindo and questions the appointment process of the DG, urging a comprehensive examination and rectification.
NEN expresses deep concern about the deliberate marginalization of Northern professionals within the administrative staff structure of the NGF.
The group warns that failure to address these concerns will perpetuate a culture of impunity and further deepen the marginalization of Northern professionals, vowing vehement resistance to such outcomes.
This call is contained in a statement signed by its Secretary-General, Haruna Ibrahim Anaruwa, and shared with journalists in Abuja on Wednesday.
“We are committed advocates for the rights and fair treatment of Northern professionals in all sectors of society, and we will continue to closely monitor the situation, taking necessary actions to ensure justice and equal opportunities for all.”
The statement asserts, “NEN believes that this act of impunity is being perpetuated by the Director-General of the NGF, A. B. Okauru, taking advantage of the complacent silence of the Nigerian Governors.
“NEN firmly supports Barkindo and condemns any unjust treatment or unwarranted dismissal based on baseless claims, insisting on the strict adherence to due process.
“Furthermore, NEN is troubled by the reported unconventional appointment process that led to the tenure of the DG for the last fifteen years.
“It has come to our attention that the DG was screened and appointed outside due process and without due diligence, a clear abuse of constitutionalism, and disregard for the ordinary rules of decency.
“This blatant violation undermines the credibility and integrity of the NGF and raises serious questions about the governance and decision-making processes within the Forum.
“In addition, concerns have been raised about financial irregularities within the NGF, suggesting that the Secretariat’s accounts have not been audited in the last decade, leading to questions about the misuse or misappropriation of funds.
“This is particularly troubling considering the organization’s involvement in high-value monetary transactions such as the Paris-London refunds. It is essential that the NGF employs a qualified accountant and ensures transparency and accountability in its financial operations.
“NEN calls upon the Nigerian Governors, as major stakeholders, to break their silence and address the issue of deliberate marginalization of Northern professionals in the staffing of the NGF.
“It is important that the Forum operates on principles of fairness, transparency, and meritocracy to provide equal opportunities to all professionals, regardless of their geographic origin.”
