Boss Mustapha denies involvement in $6.3m theft, calls for investigation

Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha, has dismissed a report that accused him of participating in the alleged illegal withdrawal of $6.3 million.

The report, which was published by an online newspaper, claimed that a special investigator appointed by President Bola Tinubu discovered the alleged theft, which supposedly took place on February 8, 2023 — a few weeks before the presidential election.

The report also alleged that Mustapha, along with former CBN Governor, Godwin Emefiele, authorised the removal of the cash under the pretext of funding foreign election observer missions.

The publication quoted the investigator’s report, which claimed CCTV footage showed how the money was taken out of the apex bank.

However, Mustapha, in a statement he signed and released to journalists on Saturday, strongly denied the allegations, calling them “outrageous and unsubstantiated.”

He said the article was a “malicious fabrication” and an “orchestrated” attempt to tarnish my character and reputation.”

The former SGF emphasised that he had no knowledge of the alleged “Presidential Directive” that the report cited as the basis for the withdrawal.

He also stated that he was never involved in any discussions or transactions related to any payments for foreign election observers.

Moreover, Mustapha questioned the timing of the allegations, pointing to the sensitive pre-Christmas period as a deliberate attempt to manipulate public opinion and create doubt.

The former SGF called for a thorough and transparent investigation into the matter, urging the authorities to probe the source of the fake documents and expose those behind the “smear” campaign.”

Mustapha also appealed to the public and media to exercise critical thinking and not fall for misinformation.

Part of his statement reads: “The article relies on the dubious premise of forged documents and a misleading narrative. It claims that $6.3 million was withdrawn from the CBN vaults based on a purported “Presidential Directive” bearing the signature of President Buhari. This document, unsurprisingly, has not been made public. In fact, I have no knowledge of such a directive, nor was I ever involved in any discussions or transactions regarding the alleged payment to foreign election observers.

“I call for a thorough and transparent investigation into this matter. Let the relevant authorities probe the source of these fake documents and expose those behind this malicious attempt to damage my reputation. I have nothing to hide and welcome any legitimate investigation that reveals the truth.

“Throughout my career in public service, I have always maintained the highest standards of integrity and ethical conduct. I have served with dedication and transparency, and my record speaks for itself. I will not let this baseless and defamatory attack go unanswered. I will defend my reputation vigorously and ensure that the truth prevails.

“This is not just about me; it is about maintaining the integrity of public service and protecting the reputation of those who have served this country with honour. I trust that the Nigerian people will see through this orchestrated attack and recognise it for what it really is: a desperate attempt to silence a voice of reason and integrity.”