Nigeria's Code of Conduct Bureau probes officials over offshore assets

Nigeria’s Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) has launched investigations into several high-profile former officials regarding allegations of undeclared offshore assets and business interests. The inquiry follows revelations from the Panama Papers and Pandora Papers, international journalistic investigations into the use of offshore companies by politicians and businesspeople.

Among those being investigated are former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi, and former Senate Presidents Bukola Saraki and David Mark. Other individuals named in the probe include former Aviation Minister Stella Oduah, the late former Bayelsa State Governor Diepreye Alamieyeseigha, former Delta State Governor James Ibori, and retired Delta State judicial officer Stella Ogene.

The CCB is examining whether these individuals complied with Nigerian laws concerning asset declaration, restrictions on private business interests for public officers, and regulations governing foreign bank accounts. While the investigations have commenced for seven specific individuals, the bureau indicated that inquiries could extend to other Nigerians identified in the international reports.