ADVERTISEMENT

AGF says comments on Magu 'distorted by the media'

His recent comments have sparked reports of antagonising the position of Acting President Yemi Osinbajo.

While addressing journalists in Abuja after the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting on Wednesday, July 5, 2017, Malami said the FEC never discussed the continued stay and possible re-nomination of Magu as chairman of the anti-graft agency.

His comments sparked reports of antagonising the position of Acting President Yemi Osinbajo who has been the target of anger from the Senate this week.

ADVERTISEMENT

In a bid to clear the air, Malami released a statement yesterday, Thursday, July 6, 2017, saying he has been deliberately misunderstood.

In the statement, he said, "It has come to my notice that a number of media organisations have been distorting and misreporting the proceedings of yesterday’s (July 5, 2017) Federal Executive Council (FEC) press briefing, and suggesting that the Presidency 'disowned' the Acting President on a matter relating to a presidential nomination."

He continued, "As the Chief Law Officer of the Federation, I would like to make it categorically clear that the President – and in this case the Acting President – is the Presidency, and therefore cannot be disowned by the Presidency.

"All matters relating to Presidential Appointments and Nominations are strictly a matter for the Presidency to handle. They are not for the Federal Executive Council, and are therefore not discussed at FEC level.

"This was the point I made yesterday at the press briefing, and which was unfortunately distorted by the media."

ADVERTISEMENT

He concluded by appealing for better responsibility from the media, saying, "I would like to appeal to the media to take seriously its responsibility to inform the public honestly and accurately, to refrain from distorting or sensationalizing the news, and to seek clarification when in doubt."

The appointment of Magu has been rejected by the Senate on two separate occasions.

The official reason for their decision is based on a report compiled by the Department of State Services (DSS) that accused the anti-graft agency boss of impropriety.

This week, lawmakers decided to neglect to honour any nomination sent to it by the presidency until the powers of the legislative arm are acknowledged.

ADVERTISEMENT

This was after Osinbajo said some executive appointments did not require legislative approval based on Section 171 of the Nigerian constitution.

Yesterday, he backed Magu, describing him as a "nightmare for corrupt people".

JOIN OUR PULSE COMMUNITY!

Unblock notifications in browser settings.
ADVERTISEMENT

Eyewitness? Submit your stories now via social or:

Email: eyewitness@pulse.ng

Recommended articles

Lagos postpones eagerly anticipated Easter boat regatta indefinitely

Lagos postpones eagerly anticipated Easter boat regatta indefinitely

Third Mainland Bridge reopens in 1 week, formal ceremony later - Minister

Third Mainland Bridge reopens in 1 week, formal ceremony later - Minister

Sanwo-Olu opens 'Sunday market' on Good Friday for Easter shopping

Sanwo-Olu opens 'Sunday market' on Good Friday for Easter shopping

Wike thanks Tinubu for the opportunity to serve

Wike thanks Tinubu for the opportunity to serve

Barrister Bida pens special birthday prayer for President Tinubu, Nigerians

Barrister Bida pens special birthday prayer for President Tinubu, Nigerians

Tinubu’s aide distributes food items to 1,750 persons in FCT, Kwara

Tinubu’s aide distributes food items to 1,750 persons in FCT, Kwara

Court grants senator accused of forging NYSC certificate ₦50m bail

Court grants senator accused of forging NYSC certificate ₦50m bail

BREAKING: Delta monarch declared wanted by military surrenders to police

BREAKING: Delta monarch declared wanted by military surrenders to police

Renowned Canada-based Nigerian playwright, Oguntokun is dead

Renowned Canada-based Nigerian playwright, Oguntokun is dead

Pulse Sports

Nigeria vs Mali: Has Finidi George done enough to land Super Eagles job permanently?

Nigeria vs Mali: Has Finidi George done enough to land Super Eagles job permanently?

I want to emulate Keshi and win the AFCON - Finidi George shares ambitious Super Eagles dream

I want to emulate Keshi and win the AFCON - Finidi George shares ambitious Super Eagles dream

Michelle Alozie: I had to do it because of African referees

Michelle Alozie: I had to do it because of African referees

AC Milan star reveals he was named after Super Eagles legend Tijani Babangida

AC Milan star reveals he was named after Super Eagles legend Tijani Babangida

Give him the job! Super Eagles fans beg NFF to make Finidi George permanent coach after Nigeria's win over Ghana

Give him the job! Super Eagles fans beg NFF to make Finidi George permanent coach after Nigeria's win over Ghana

Super Eagles 2-1 Black Stars: Nigerians praise Iwobi, Lookman, Finidi George after friendly victory against Ghana

Super Eagles 2-1 Black Stars: Nigerians praise Iwobi, Lookman, Finidi George after friendly victory against Ghana

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT