Date: 2017-08-11

A socio-political group, Kwara Agenda has cautioned Lagos lawyer, Mr. Femi Falana (SAN) against attacking Senate President, Dr Bukola Saraki allegedly for no just cause.

The group, comprising mainly youths in a statement signed by its coordinator, Mallam Yusuf Olatunji, noted that Falana had been very loud about the issue of payment of pension to former governors which Saraki is entitled to by law but had on his own volition abandoned the entitlement.

The group while arguing that Saraki has demonstrated good leadership by his decision also asked Falana to explain what role he allegedly played in the disposal or sale of properties forfeited to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) by people convicted by the courts in the last 10 years.

Excerpt from the statement reads: "It is easy for people like Falana to grandstand and play to the gallery by issuing press statements accusing others and making demands on others. However, our position is that he who goes to equity must go with clean hands. You cannot demand probity and accountability from others while you hide some information about your transactions and financial dealings, particularly since a government agency or commission is being alleged to have been involved.

"Let it also be noted by all and sundry that the said pension was legitimately paid to Dr. Saraki and it was his personal decision to stop the payment of the money. The government has equally stopped the payment. Saraki did not need to stop the payment since the law allowed it. He took a moral decision to stop the payment of the money into his account.

"Somebody like Falana should simply commend Saraki for his responsive and responsible action. Saraki has demonstrated leadership that others should follow. He deserves praise not the kind of negative response by Falana."