₦60bn Hidden In Abuja Homes? Kalu Urges Tinubu To Grant Looters Amnesty

Senator representing Abia North, Orji Uzor Kalu, has called on President Bola Tinubu to consider granting amnesty to individuals accused of stealing public funds if they voluntarily return the money to the country.

According to Ireporter Online, Kalu made the proposal during an appearance on News Central Television’s 60 Minutes With Mr Kay, where he discussed ways the government could recover funds allegedly taken from the country over the years.

The former Abia State governor urged President Tinubu to establish a two-year window during which former public officials and other individuals accused of looting government resources could return the money without facing prosecution.

Kalu argued that such a measure could help recover significant amounts of money currently being kept outside the formal financial system and redirect the funds towards economic development.

He claimed that billions of naira were allegedly being kept in private residences across Abuja, saying the money was not contributing to economic growth while it remained outside the banking system.

According to the senator, providing an opportunity for individuals to voluntarily return the funds could encourage the repatriation of money allegedly acquired through corruption and make it available for productive activities.

Kalu said the proposed amnesty should cover funds allegedly taken over several decades, allowing those involved to return the money without fear of prosecution.

He maintained that the priority should be recovering the funds and putting them back into circulation for the benefit of the Nigerian economy.

The senator’s proposal comes amid ongoing efforts by successive Nigerian governments to recover allegedly stolen public funds and strengthen measures against corruption and financial crimes.