The minister harped on thorough investigation, saying it was necessary to stress the need for a thorough and impartial investigation to ascertain the truth of the claims.
The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has promised to probe the corruption allegations against the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla.
Matawalle in a statement by the Director, Information, Press and Public Relations of the ministry, Mr Henshaw Ogubike, noted that the administration of President Bola Tinubu had a zero tolerance for corruption in the public service.
“Though these allegations might be mischievous, the Ministry of Defence is committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity and accountability within the Nigerian Armed Forces.
“The allegations levelled against Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla are serious,” he said.
The minister harped on thorough investigation, saying it was necessary to stress the need for a thorough and impartial investigation to ascertain the truth of the claims.
Speaking on the source of information, the minister said, “We respect the role of the media in fostering transparency and holding public figures accountable.
“At the same time, we urge responsible journalism that adheres to the principles of fairness, objectivity, and accuracy.
“Accusations of this nature can have far-reaching consequences on the reputation of individuals and institutions, and thus, it is crucial to avoid premature judgments.”
SaharaReporters had earlier reported that a coalition of concerned Nigerians submitted a petition to President Bola Tinubu, raising serious allegations of crude oil theft, contract splitting, procurement fraud, and corruption practices against Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla.
In a petition signed by notable human rights activists and lawyers in the country including Pelumi Olajengbesi, Esq, Comrade Deji Adeyanju, Comrade Mohammed Suleiman SK, Barrister Aisha Waliki, Esq and Comrade Ogunwoye Samson, the coalition had called for an immediate investigation into the conduct of Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, who is accused of engaging in large-scale corrupt practices.