By Aaior K. Comfort

The Middle Belt Youths Council has called on President Bola Tinubu to mandate the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to conduct a thorough investigation into the long-standing allegations of corruption surrounding the Ajaokuta Steel Company.

At a press conference in Abuja on Monday, Emmanuel Zopmal, National Leader of the Middle Belt Youth Council, expressed frustration over the lack of action from the EFCC under previous administrations. The Ajaokuta Steel Company, a project that has spanned numerous Nigerian governments, has reportedly consumed billions in investments without achieving its intended operational goals.

Zopmal criticized the project for its persistent issues, including repeated contract renegotiations, cost overruns, and a general lack of transparency. He urged President Tinubu to direct the EFCC to work with other relevant agencies to probe the company, as well as the Federal Ministry of Steel Development and the Federal Ministry of Justice, to uncover any corrupt practices and financial mismanagement.

He stated, “We call on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to direct the EFCC to investigate the long history of corruption and financial mismanagement at the Ajaokuta Steel Company. Major figures involved in international consortia contract negotiations and agreements should be identified and prosecuted.”

The Council demands that the findings of this investigation be made public and that those found guilty face the full extent of the law.