A coalition of civil society groups has urged the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to thoroughly investigate allegations against the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for Ekiti South Federal Constituency I, Engr. Toyin Okoro Zachaius. The group also demanded that the anti-corruption agency make its findings public and prosecute the candidate if the allegations are established.
The coalition, led by National Coordinator Comrade Victor Kalu, expressed concerns about alleged infractions involving Zachaius, who previously served as a Special Legislative Assistant to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas. According to Kalu, the ICPC had invited Zachaius for questioning following petitions from groups within the Ekiti APC and other civil society organizations.
The coalition alleged that Zachaius, while serving at the National Assembly, simultaneously operated as Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of a private company, ZAC-LAWREMZ Nigeria Limited, contrary to public service rules. This alleged infraction may have led to a conflict of interest, as the group claimed that Zachaius received salaries and allowances from the National Assembly while benefiting from the private company.
Furthermore, the coalition alleged that Zachaius used his position as a public servant to solicit or secure contracts for the private company. The group also raised concerns about statements the candidate allegedly made in documents submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). These allegations have not been independently verified.
Comrade Kalu urged the ICPC to pursue the matter independently, resisting any alleged political pressure. He emphasized that the ICPC should remain firm and committed to the anti-corruption mantra of the Federal Government by thoroughly investigating and prosecuting the matter to its logical conclusion.
The coalition also alleged that former Senator Adedayo Adeyeye had attempted to influence the handling of the matter, although this claim has not been independently established. The group called on the ICPC to allow due process to take its course, stressing that the allegations should be determined through investigation and evidence.
The coalition is seeking "justice, equity and fairness" and urged the ICPC not to dismiss the petitions without making its findings known. The allegations against Zachaius have not been independently verified, and he remains entitled to due process and the opportunity to respond to them.
Key points
- The ICPC has been urged to investigate allegations against the APC candidate for Ekiti South Federal Constituency I.
- The allegations include operating a private company while serving at the National Assembly and soliciting contracts for the company.
- The coalition has called for the ICPC to make its findings public and prosecute the candidate if the allegations are established.
