President Buhari disowns ‘in-law’ declared wanted for $65m fraud

The presidency has stated that Gimba Yau Kumo, declared wanted by the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) over an alleged $65 million fraud is not his son-in-law.

On Friday, May 14, the ICPC declared Kumo wanted over the embezzlement of $65 million funds while he was the Director, Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN).

In a statement released by the Presidential spokesman, Garba Shehu stated that the Buhari administration has shown seriousness to fight corruption regardless of who is involved.

The presidency also denied Kumo as President Buhari’s in-law. However, admitted that Kumo was linked to the family by marriage but says, “the relationship has ended some years ago.”

Read the statement below;

“A running story to the effect that the ICPC has declared ‘an in-law of the President’ wanted in connection with fraud involving the large sum of money, USD65 million to be exact.

This should normally be an affirmation that our anti-corruption agencies/institutions are truly independent and allowed unfettered freedom by the President; which is in fact the case. That a state institution can issue such is a measure of the administration’s commitment to accountability, equality and justice.

To set the records straight, the person declared wanted by the ICPC is not an in-law to President Buhari. While at some point in time, the said fugitive from justice had been linked to a family member in marriage; that relationship has ended some years ago.

It is therefore unfortunate to bring the President’s family into this case. It is in our view an attempt to generate views and sell copies of sensational reporting.

The President’s position at all times is that the law be allowed to take its course. As is well known of him, President Muhammadu Buhari will not provide any cover for crime, no matter who is involved.”