NEWS
“I Sacked A Governor For ₦300,000, Today ₦300bn Is Still Not Accounted For” — Former Military President of Nigeria, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB) Says
Former Military President of Nigeria, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB), has declared that his administration was not corrupt, recalling how he once removed a state governor from office over the alleged misappropriation of just ₦300,000.
Babangida made the striking comparison while reflecting on the growing scale of alleged financial irregularities in Nigeria, contrasting the standards of accountability during his military administration with the enormous sums of public funds that are reportedly unaccounted for today.
According to the former military president, his government took swift and decisive action against public officials found wanting, regardless of their position.
“We are not corrupt. I would proudly say it.
“I sacked a governor for ₦300,000. Today, there is ₦300b still not accounted for”
The former Head of State’s remarks have drawn attention because of the sharp contrast he made between the ₦300,000 that allegedly led to the removal of a governor during his administration and the staggering ₦300 billion he said remains unaccounted for today.
Babangida’s statement is expected to reignite debate over corruption, accountability and the management of public resources in Nigeria, particularly amid persistent concerns about transparency in government and the effectiveness of institutions responsible for tracking and safeguarding public funds.
The former military president’s comments also raise fresh questions about whether Nigeria’s standards for holding public office holders accountable have weakened over the years, as citizens continue to demand greater transparency and consequences for the misuse or disappearance of public funds.