‘Looters Are Human Beings Like You, Forgive Them’ — Orji Kalu Tells Tinubu

Senator representing Abia North, Orji Uzor Kalu, has urged President Bola Tinubu to grant amnesty to former public officials accused of embezzling public funds if they voluntarily return the money to Nigeria.

Kalu made the call during an appearance on News Central TV’s 60 Minutes With Mr Kay, where he proposed a two-year window for individuals accused of looting public funds to return the money without facing prosecution.

According to the former Abia State governor, the proposed amnesty should cover funds allegedly taken at any time, including money dating back to 1960.

Kalu said such an arrangement could encourage individuals who allegedly kept public funds outside the banking system, including in private residences, to return the money and reinject it into the formal economy.

“President Tinubu should give people pardon,” Kalu said, arguing that substantial amounts of money could be recovered if those involved were given an opportunity to voluntarily return the funds.

He said, “So I would like President Tinubu to give a window of two years and say, no matter from 1960, no matter where you keep the money, return it to Nigeria, nobody will touch you. You are pardoned.”

Kalu argued that money kept outside the formal banking system contributes little to economic activity because it remains idle instead of being used for productive purposes.

He maintained that bringing such funds back into circulation could increase liquidity, strengthen the financial system and provide more resources for investment and other economic activities.

The senator’s proposal comes amid continued concerns over corruption, public finance management and the recovery of allegedly misappropriated public funds in Nigeria.

Kalu believes a voluntary return-and-amnesty programme could enable the government to recover substantial amounts of money while offering those involved an opportunity to avoid prosecution under the proposed arrangement.

However, such a policy would require clear legal and institutional frameworks to determine the eligibility of beneficiaries, the verification of returned funds and the extent of any immunity granted.