Sokoto Commission: Tambuwal Investigation Not A Witch-Hunt, But A Bid For Accountability

Sokoto Commission: Tambuwal Investigation Not A Witch-Hunt, But A Bid For Accountability

Sokoto, Nigeria – January 18, 2025 – The Sokoto State Judicial Commission of Inquiry has officially concluded its public hearings into the administration of former Governor Aminu Waziri Tambuwal. The Commission emphasized that its…Sokoto Commission: Tambuwal Investigation Not A Witch-Hunt, But A Bid For Accountability

investigation is not aimed at persecuting the ex-governor but is instead part of standard governance practices to review his tenure.

The inquiry, which began in October 2023, was focused on examining the administration’s handling of state properties during Tambuwal’s time in office, from 2015 to 2023. The hearings concluded on Thursday, with the Commission making it clear that no ill intentions or witch-hunting motives were behind the investigation.

Commission Calls for Closure After Ex-Governor’s Continued Absences

Lead Counsel for the Commission, Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Hassan Liman, expressed frustration over Tambuwal’s repeated failure to appear as a witness. Despite numerous adjournments and memos urging his attendance, the former governor did not show up for testimony.

Liman urged the Commission to proceed with closing the public hearings after giving Tambuwal ample opportunity to testify. “This commission is not a trial but a fact-finding mission to determine the management of the state’s properties during Tambuwal’s governance,” Liman clarified.

In defense of Tambuwal, Barrister Nuhu Adamu argued that his client was still interested in participating, claiming that his legal team’s consistent presence showed respect for the Commission’s proceedings.

Justice Mu’azu Pindiga Delivers Final Ruling

After hearing both sides, the Commission’s Chairman, Justice Mu’azu Pindiga, declared that no further adjournments would be granted, despite provisions allowing for an arrest for non-compliance with the Commission’s summons. The decision was made after the investigation had spanned over a year.

“The Commission had initially agreed to let all other witnesses testify before former Governor Tambuwal, but we can no longer grant further extensions for his appearance,” Justice Pindiga stated.

With the hearings officially closed, the Commission now gives witnesses 14 days to submit written responses to the memos, followed by a 10-day period for replies before formally concluding the investigation.

Public Reactions and Anticipated Outcomes

The closure of the hearings has sparked widespread reactions, with many following the fate of the embattled former governor. The inquiry has been closely watched by political observers and residents of Sokoto, as the Commission’s findings could have significant implications for Tambuwal’s legacy and any potential political future.

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