The Young Progressive Party (YPP) has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to suspend the Interior Minister, Hon. Tunji-Ojo, within 48 hours, threatening to mobilize youths across the country to shut down Abuja on Monday, January 15, 2024. In an open letter addressed to President Tinubu, the YPP cited alleged “abuse of office” as the reason for demanding the suspension of Tunji-Ojo, emphasizing that failure to comply within the stipulated time frame would lead to nationwide protests.
The YPP accused Tunji-Ojo of receiving payments through his company, New Planet Project Limited, for consultancy services amounting to N438.1 million from the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation. The party alleged that the payments were part of the N3 billion awarded to several consultants for the National Social Register contract, intended for cash transfers and social investment programs.
According to the YPP, Tunji-Ojo’s actions violate the Nigerian Constitution and the Code of Conduct law, particularly Sections 5 and 6, which prohibit public officers from engaging in conflicts of interest and participating in any business other than farming. The party claimed that Tunji-Ojo deceived the Federal Executive Council into approving the contract without disclosing his interest in New Planet Project Limited, thereby engaging in deceit and obtaining by false pretense.
The party also accused Thalis Apalowo, the Coordinator of the National Programme Manager for Grants for Vulnerable Groups, of being a front for Tunji-Ojo in securing the contract. It alleged that Apalowo, a Legislative Assistant to Hon. Tunji-Ojo during the 9th House of Representatives, received funds for expenses related to an advance team that accompanied the suspended Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Dr. Betta Edu, to Kogi State.
The YPP called on President Tinubu to suspend Tunji-Ojo immediately and initiate a comprehensive and independent investigation into the alleged misconduct. The party further urged legal actions against the Interior Minister to serve as a deterrent to others. Tunji-Ojo has clarified that he resigned ownership of New Planet Project Limited in 2019, following his election to the House of Representatives.
As of the time of reporting, there has been no official response from President Tinubu or the Interior Minister regarding the YPP’s demands. The situation remains fluid, and developments may occur in response to the party’s ultimatum.
