By; SAMSON YAKI, Lafia
The All Progressives Congress (APC) Chairmanship Candidate in Doma LG for the October 6 Local Government polls in Nasarawa State, Arch. Usman Ahmad Sarki has been dragged to the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) for investigation and subsequent prosecution.
Also petitioned was his running-mate, John Bako Ari, putting the ruling party at greater risk of losing the election to the opposition.
Award-winning CSO, Integrity Forum for Good Leadership (IFGL) petitioned the duo over breaches of code for public officers.
The petition, signed by Chukure B. Hamza dated September 28th, alleged that Sarki, a former staff of Isa Mustapha Agwai Polytechnic (IMAP), Lafia while still in active service took appointment and was paid emoluments as consultant to the state Universal Basic Education Board (NSUBEB) between year 2011 and 2015.
His engagement at NSUBEB, according to the group became a basis for his being investigated by the state House of Assembly (NSHA).
Sarki also was alleged of being a shareholder of five (5) private companies while serving as a public officer under the employ of the state government, contrary to the provisions of Paragraph 1&2 (a), Part 1 of the Fifth Schedule of the Constitution.
The companies listed include USA Projects Limited, USA Materials and Profiles Limited, HUA Life Spring Hotels Limited, Defined Space Consultants Limited and HUA Lifespring Integrated Farms Limited all registered with the Corporate Affairs.
He was further accused of false declaration of asset by the group.
“It is our expectation and indeed our humble request, that consequent upon the information provided, you will discharge the constitutional duties vested in you and your good office and take prompt and necessary actions within the ambit of the Law to preserve, uphold and enforce the Law in this matter by involving other sister agencies”, the petition read.
Meanwhile, Ari, a former councilor representing Akpanaja ward allegedly receives double salaries as public office holder and staff with the Ekye Development Area of the state.
He was also accused of maintaining his appointment with a private company, Agro and Technical Processing Company Limited, a subsidiary of the Olam Group. This is contrary to Paragraph 2(b), Part 1, of the Fifth Schedule of the Constitution.
The group also accused him of fake and non declaration of assets.
“As patriotic citizens, we are resolved to contributing our quota in ensuring that individuals who are desirous of governing us are of unquestionable character, high moral standing and integrity.
“You will do well in ensuring timely investigation of the stated claims of constitutional breaches and transmitting the outcome to the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT) for further necessary action and possible prosecution in accordance with the Law”, the petition addressed to the Chairman of CCB adds.
Efforts to reach Sarki through his phone number proved abortive at press time. A party official however expressed fears that the scandal might cost them the chairmanship seat of the area if not properly managed.
“This is too bad for the party at this crucial time of election. Nevertheless, we know what to do. There is absolutely nothing to fear”, he assured.
The official who spoke under condition of anonymity appealed to the electorate not to lose faith and confidence in the ruling party as it has the best plans and intentions for them.
