Boss Mustapha, who served as the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) under the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari vehemently denies any involvement in the alleged illegal withdrawal of $6.3 million from the Central Bank of Nigeria.
A report from an online newspaper, supposedly based on a special investigator appointed by President Bola Tinubu, claims that this unauthorized withdrawal took place on February 8, 2023, just weeks before the presidential election.
The report suggests that Mustapha, along with the former CBN Governor, Godwin Emefiele, authorized the removal of the cash under the pretence of funding foreign election observer missions, with CCTV footage supposedly capturing the money being moved out of the bank.
In a strongly worded statement released on Saturday, Mustapha categorically refuted the accusations, labelling them as “outrageous and unsubstantiated.” He dismissed the article as a “malicious fabrication” and an “orchestrated” attempt to tarnish his character and reputation. Mustapha emphasized his lack of knowledge regarding the purported “Presidential Directive” cited in the report as justification for the withdrawal, asserting that he was never part of discussions or transactions related to payments for foreign election observers.
Expressing scepticism about the timing of the allegations, Mustapha suggested a deliberate attempt to exploit public sentiment and sow seeds of doubt, particularly during the sensitive pre-Christmas period. He called for a thorough and transparent investigation into the matter, urging authorities to probe the source of the fabricated documents and expose those behind the “smear” campaign.
Mustapha also appealed to the public and media to exercise critical thinking and resist succumbing to misinformation. He highlighted the dubious nature of the article, pointing out the lack of public scrutiny for the alleged “Presidential Directive” and expressed his commitment to defending his reputation vigorously.
The former SGF concluded by underscoring the broader significance of the situation, stating that it is not just about him but about upholding the integrity of public service and safeguarding the reputation of those who have served the country with honor. He expressed confidence that the Nigerian people would see through the orchestrated attack and recognize it for what it truly is—a desperate attempt to silence a voice of reason and integrity.
