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Johnson Agbonayinma, chairman, House Committee on Nigeria – US Relations/Interparliamentary on Tuesday alleged that developed countries which serve as she haven for looted funds from Nigeria and other developing countries are as guilty of corruption.
Agbonayinma stated this during an interactive session with delegation from the US Air War College led by Lt. Col. Stacy Kihara, who were on three-month short course to Nigeria.
The lawmaker also solicited for the assistance from the US in the area of sharing intelligence information and technology that would help in tackling the menace of insurgence, especially the recurring cases of abduction of students.
He expressed concern over allegation bothering on about 391 million barrels of undeclared Nigeria’s crude oil allegedly traced to the United States, and the need for both countries to synergize towards ending all illegal transfer of stolen assets and funds in safe haven.
The Edo lawmaker, also harped on the need for United States government to assist Nigeria in the repatriation of stolen funds stashed in foreign countries by corrupt public officials.
Agbonayinma decried Nigeria’s inability to provide requisite security infrastructure such as forensic laboratory, paper track and database that would enable it to track its citizens as well as checkmate crimes in the country as obtainable in the US and other climes where the regulatory laws enforce declaration of funds above $10,000 by immigrants.
He also urged the military delegation that, as accomplished officers who will in no distant future be involved in policy formation in the United States, to assist in the repatriation of the nation’s stolen wealth kept in America by corrupt persons.
“I believe regular visits and shared interest will open an improved bilateral relationship and stronger ties between our two great nations. Nigeria is a key nation in global peace especially within the continent of Africa.
“Nigerians are peace loving people determined to conquer all challenges to make Nigeria great among the comity of nations. Nigeria continually seeks the support of the United States and other friendly nations to overcome the challenges we face, majority of our people yearn for one united country, devoid of sectionalism and nepotism, built on equity and justice, a country of security and prosperity.
“The National Assembly is committed to good governance, social security, due process and transparency. We are strongly in support of the fight against corruption, the need to build institutions to fight and overcome corruption is paramount in the minds of all lawmakers.
“Once again, I wish to reiterate the need for stronger cooperation between our two nations in the areas of security, economic and cultural exchange in our bilateral relations. An estimated one million Nigerians and Nigerian Americans, live, study and work in the United States, undoubtedly contributing in building a better America. The greatness of the United States is in its diversity and Nigerian Americans have continued to be productive citizens of the US.
“I will not fail to solicit for your support as accomplished officers who in no distant time will be involved in framing policies in Washington DC to assist in the repatriation of Nigeria’s stolen wealth stashed in the US by corrupt persons, these monies are proceeds of crime and they should be returned back for the development of our country, Nigeria,” he urged.
While expressing the country’s appreciation to the US in supporting the country combat health, economic and security issues, the House member further sought the support of America to assist in the deepening and strengthening democracy by ensuring a successful conduct of the 2019 general elections.
In her remarks, Lt. Col. Stacy Kihara of the US Air Force informed the House committee members that the visit has enabled the delegation members study the political, economic and social dynamics of Nigeria.
Kihara who was accompanied by Phillip Franz Seitz, political officer in the US Embassy in Nigeria, disclosed that the short course was aimed at preparing US future leaders for improved relationship and forge stronger alliance with Nigeria.
KEHINDE AKINTOLA, Abuja
