Gbenga Daniel proposes amnesty for repatriation of stolen funds

Sen. Gbenga Daniel (APC-Ogun East) has proposed that the Federal Government grant a structured amnesty to Nigerians who return illicit funds held abroad, provided the money is invested in productive sectors of the economy.

Daniel, a former governor of Ogun, made the recommendation on Wednesday in Abuja during a book launch at the Yar’Adua Centre to mark his 70th birthday.

He said corruption remained a major impediment to Nigeria’s progress and stressed the need to address capital flight, describing it as one of the most damaging dimensions of graft.

According to him, a large portion of illicit wealth passes through the banking system, making it traceable with modern financial intelligence tools, while calling for a more systemic approach to tackling corruption.

“In the interim, one of the most damaging dimensions of corruption is capital flight. Much of the money stolen is invested outside our shores, enriching other nations while depriving Nigeria of development resources.

“As a pragmatic step, government could consider a well-structured moratorium or amnesty on repatriation of such funds, provided they are invested productively within the country. This will help inject needed capital into the economy,” he said.

The lawmaker also emphasised the need to fully utilise the Code of Conduct Bureau to strengthen accountability among public officers.

On the country’s information gap, Daniel raised concerns over misinformation and disinformation, noting that public opinion is often shaped by distorted narratives and half-truths.

“Political decisions are frequently taken from warped viewpoints, while even elites sometimes rely only on headlines without interrogating issues in depth.

“We must invest deliberately in credible, fact-based information systems to empower citizens,” he said.

Daniel also lamented declining ethical standards in public service, noting that sources of sudden wealth are rarely questioned, and called for a return to the “Omoluabi” ethos of integrity, honour and moral uprightness.

He expressed optimism that Nigeria’s governance challenges were not insurmountable, stressing the need for collective will and sincerity of purpose.

The event featured the launch of four books, including ‘Daniel in the Lions’ Den’ and ‘My March through the Courts’.

Reviewing two of the books, Dr Reuben Abati urged Nigerians to cultivate the habit of documenting their experiences.

Abati, a Fellow of the Nigeria Guild of Editors, recommended the books to Nigerian youth and researchers, noting that they offer deep reflections on Nigerian politics.

Also speaking, Sen. Adeniyi Adegbonmire (APC-Ondo Central) described ‘My March through the Courts’ as a “must-read,” highlighting its account of Daniel’s legal battles and eventual acquittal. (NAN)

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