EFCC vs Atiku: Tinubu Was Put On Trial At The Code of Conduct Tribunal, He Defended Himself—Basiru

The National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Ajibola Basiru, has dismissed allegations by opposition parties that investigations involving political figures are motivated by persecution, insisting that individuals should allow established legal procedures to determine questions of criminal responsibility.

According to a report by Channels Television on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, Basiru made the remarks while discussing public accountability, criminal liability and the opposition’s criticism of investigations involving politicians.

The APC national secretary argued that people who have not committed any criminal offence should have no reason to fear lawful investigations. He maintained that allegations of political persecution should not be used to undermine the justice system or distract the public from the need to establish the facts of a case.

Speaking during the interview, Basiru drew on his professional background as a lawyer to explain his position, arguing that criminal responsibility should be determined by evidence and the applicable legal process rather than political considerations.

“I’m a lawyer. There’s no limitation to criminal liability if you don’t have any criminal act that you have done or omission. You don’t have any reason to doubt or to have any concern about it,” he said, adding that individuals who have engaged in criminal misconduct would have reasons to be concerned about possible legal consequences.

To reinforce his argument, Basiru referred to legal proceedings involving prominent political figures in other countries, including United States President Donald Trump. He cited Trump’s experience with the American judicial system as an example of how political leaders can face legal scrutiny.

“Was President Trump not trialled in America? He was tried, he was convicted by a court of law. That must be due process,” Basiru stated.

The APC official also defended his own record in public service, pointing to his previous positions as a commissioner and senator. He argued that public officials should be assessed based on their conduct and records rather than automatically assuming that every investigation involving a politician is politically motivated.

Basiru explained that he had served as a commissioner on two occasions and later represented his constituency in the Senate, where he participated in public projects. According to him, his time in public office had not resulted in the kind of allegations or concerns being raised by some political actors.

He said, “You don’t make political witness, you must be able to make a distinction between people who have had opportunity to enter the public space and have a clean record.”

The former senator added that his experience demonstrated the importance of maintaining a clear record while holding public office. He suggested that politicians who have conducted themselves properly should be prepared to address legitimate questions through the appropriate legal channels rather than treat every inquiry as an attempt to damage their political careers.

Basiru further cited President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s previous appearance before the Code of Conduct Tribunal as an example of a political leader responding to proceedings within the judicial system. He recalled that Tinubu defended himself during the process and argued that such situations should be handled through established legal procedures.

“For instance, President Tinubu was put on trial at the Code of Conduct Tribunal. He defended himself. He did not cry,” Basiru said.

Turning to the opposition parties, the APC national secretary accused them of placing too much emphasis on allegations of persecution instead of developing policies and presenting practical alternatives to Nigerians.

He argued that political groups seeking to challenge the ruling party should concentrate on organising their structures, communicating their programmes and convincing voters that they offer better solutions.

Basiru maintained that political competition should be based on ideas, policy proposals and the ability to address the country’s challenges rather than repeated complaints about investigations or legal proceedings.

“So the problem with the opposition in Nigeria is that rather than going to canvas your ideas, get yourself organized, and be ready,” he said.

His comments come amid heightened political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections, as the APC and opposition parties continue to exchange criticisms over governance, accountability and the conduct of public officials.

Watch the video starting from 22:51 to 24:05

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