The administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari is under renewed scrutiny as several top officials from his government, including former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor Godwin Emefiele and key ex-ministers, face investigations over alleged mismanagement of public funds totaling N3.5 trillion.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and other anti-corruption agencies are probing multiple high-profile cases tied to Buhari’s tenure, raising questions about the effectiveness of his anti-corruption campaign. Emefiele, already facing several corruption charges, is at the center of allegations involving irregular foreign exchange dealings, procurement fraud, and abuse of office.
Also under the radar are former ministers from key ministries such as petroleum, power, and humanitarian affairs, with investigators examining suspicious contracts, inflated expenditures, and diverted public funds. Sources close to the probe say several of the cases may soon lead to full prosecution in court.
The revelations have sparked public debate, with critics arguing that Buhari’s much-publicized war against corruption may have failed to deliver meaningful accountability. Some civil society groups have called for an independent panel to audit the financial dealings of key agencies during Buhari’s administration.
Analysts say the ongoing probe may shape how history judges the Buhari era, which was largely defined by promises of transparency and good governance. Meanwhile, the Tinubu-led government has vowed to continue investigating and prosecuting cases of corruption, regardless of political affiliations.
