Re: Open letter to Bankole

Dear Editor,
Please permit me to respond to the open letter by Odimegwu Onwumere.

May I start by correcting the impression being put forward by the above named writer that it is human nature to embezzle (see paragraph 2 of the open letter). No, it is not. Only greedy public office holders devoid of any sense of responsibility resort to stealing or diversion of public funds. The pecks of office is ordinarily generous enough for most office holder. Although I do understand why you may think it is human nature to embezzle!

Moving on, I am sure Speaker Bankole is not oblivious that to the fact that he is a role model to a lot of young and older Nigerians. He is definitely aware of the responsibilities that fate has bestowed upon him. A sneak preview into his background would point to a well groomed young man who should be able to shun all financial improprieties and temptations.

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Festus Keyamo's allegations remains just that until proven otherwise by a constituted authority either in the House itself or by other law enforcement agencies such as the ICPC, EFCC or the Police. Let us resist the temptation to equate allegations with guilt. There is no need to be disappointed until Speaker Bankole is either indicted or implicated.

I am sure that at the fullness of time, Speaker Bankole would provide detailed response to all inquiries and allegations. Dont forget that he cannot give an half-hearted explanation to Nigerians, he would be publicly roasted and rightly so if found wanting.

Finally, I agree with you that Speaker Bankole must explain to Nigerians what he knows about this transaction without any attempt to cover -up as the speaker of the House. The buck indeed stops at his desk. He must also do this timorously or else he would forever be tainted. However, we must give him time. Time to do an in-house investigation, time to fish out the culprit if any and time to gather and tell the whole truth and nothing but the truth. For now, he must be presumed innocent and the several agencies already mentioned above allowed to do their job effectively without prejudice, fear or favour. There is hope for Nigerian youths and I hope you (Odimegwu Onwumere) get well soon.

N.B. I have no personal relationship with Dimeji Bankole and have not met him or spoken to him since November 2006.

Bob Olukoya




Bob Olukoya Esq. LLB (1994) LLM (1997) BL (2003) MSc (2008)
Solicitor and Advocate
+44 7725 694 592