Group lauds arrest of Edo environment task force boss

By Dapo Akinrefon
BENIN— COALITION for Good Governance and Economic Justice in Africa has praised the arrest of former Chairman of the Edo State Task Force on Environment, Major Lawrence Loye (rtd) for unlawful demolition of houses in Benin City.

The coalition said the step taken by Edo State Governor, Mr. Adams Oshiomhole was right,  adding that other public office holders should follow his lead.

Chairman of the coalition, Mr. Adesunloye Arowolo in a statement, said, “if we have leaders who takes decision to protect the interest of the masses and arrest anybody linked with corruption like Governor Oshiomhole did in Edo, I believe we would by now, be on safer path of a corrupt-free society.”

Arowolo identified the lack luster and undecided leadership in Nigeria over the years as one of the banes of corruption, adding that it had hampered development significantly.

He noted that, “pampering corruption in Nigeria and indecisive decisions by the political leadership in the country cannot take her anywhere if we must confront the issues of good governance in this country.

“Judgment will surely begin from the House of God, I believe this was the point Oshiomhole got right by bringing somebody,  who thinks he was untouchable in the society because he is a government official to justice.

“What has the Governor done wrong? The issue, if I may remind everyone, is that Loye allegedly acted arbitrarily and outside his authority for the purpose of his job.   In other words, he abused his powers.  A policeman, for instance, can lawfully arrest.  But when he acts outside his lawful authority or abuses his powers, it becomes arbitrary and unlawful.  So was the conduct of Loye,” he added.