The Arewa Youth Integrity Forum (AYIF) has defended the Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila against calls for suspension made by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s media team regarding recent bribery allegations.
Led by National President Alhaji Mohammed Aliyu, the group argued that the former Speaker has a record of integrity and opposed calls for his suspension before an investigation.
The forum’s reaction followed a statement by Atiku’s media team calling for Gbajabiamila’s suspension and an independent investigation into allegations involving the former Speaker of the House of Representatives.
Speaking on behalf of the group, Aliyu said AYIF supports a thorough and impartial investigation into any allegation of wrongdoing but argued that due process should be allowed to take its course.
He also criticised Atiku’s position, describing it as politically motivated and urging political leaders to avoid making statements that could prejudice ongoing matters.
In its statement, AYIF commended Gbajabiamila’s contributions to legislative and executive governance, saying it believes his record in public service reflects commitment and dedication.
The group maintained that allegations against public officials should be investigated through appropriate legal and institutional processes rather than debated in the political arena.
AYIF also urged political actors to focus on issues of governance and national development ahead of the 2027 general elections, while reaffirming its commitment to transparency, accountability and the rule of law.
The forum called on all stakeholders to allow investigative authorities to handle the matter without undue political interference, stressing that every individual is entitled to due process.
