Open letter to President Bola Tinubu — By Wola Gbadebo
I write as a concerned citizen and as someone who wishes to see your administration succeed in its stated objective of building stronger institutions and restoring public confidence in governance. The recent controversy surrounding the alleged existence and operation of a purported presidential agency has generated significant public interest, both within Nigeria and beyond our borders. Regardless of how the matter is ultimately resolved, I believe it presents an opportunity for your administration to demonstrate its commitment to transparency, accountability, and institutional reform.
The issue before the nation extends beyond the actions or claims of any one individual. Rather, it raises broader questions about the systems and processes through which public institutions are created, supervised, documented, and represented. These are questions that deserve clear and authoritative answers, not merely because of the current public debate, but because confidence in government institutions depends on the certainty that citizens have about how those institutions function.
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If the agency in question was duly constituted, then the public deserves a clear explanation of its legal status, mandate, and operational framework. Conversely, if it was not an authorised entity, then it becomes necessary to understand how it was able to operate in a manner that created the appearance of legitimacy over an extended period. In either scenario, a thorough and transparent review would serve the interests of both your administration and the Nigerian people.
What has concerned many observers is not simply the existence of conflicting narratives, but the broader implications for public trust. Reports that the organisation interacted with public institutions, financial institutions, foreign representatives, and other stakeholders have naturally led citizens to seek greater clarity. In a democracy, public confidence is strengthened when governments address difficult questions openly and comprehensively.
Mr. President, history often presents leaders with moments that, while challenging, provide an opportunity to reinforce public faith in institutions. This may be one such moment. Rather than treating this matter solely as a question of individual conduct, it may be more beneficial to approach it as an opportunity to review institutional processes and identify any systemic weaknesses that may exist.
To that end, I respectfully suggest that your administration consider directing a comprehensive and independent inquiry into the circumstances surrounding this matter. Such an inquiry could seek to establish, among other things:
* The precise legal and administrative status of the entity in question;
* The processes through which it engaged with public institutions and other stakeholders;
* Whether existing controls and verification mechanisms functioned as intended;
* Whether there are broader structural vulnerabilities within the public service that require attention.
Beyond the immediate controversy, this episode may also provide an opportunity to revisit ongoing discussions about public sector reform, institutional rationalisation, and the strengthening of administrative oversight. Successive administrations have acknowledged the need for a more efficient, transparent, and accountable public service. Advancing those reforms would not only address present concerns but also help prevent similar controversies in the future.
Mr. President, Nigerians understand that no government is immune from institutional challenges. What often distinguishes strong leadership is not the absence of difficulties, but the willingness to confront them directly, transparently, and decisively. By ensuring that the facts are fully established and any lessons properly learned, your administration has an opportunity to reinforce confidence in the institutions of state and demonstrate its commitment to good governance.
I offer these thoughts in good faith and with sincere respect for the office you hold and the responsibilities you bear.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Yours faithfully,
Wola Gbadebo
The Nation Builder
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