Abati confirms Oghiadomhe’s sack

The Special Adviser to President Goodluck Jonathan, Dr. Reuben Abati, has confirmed the exit of the Chief of Staff to the President, Chief Mike Oghiadhome, from the Presidency.
Abati, who spoke with newsmen on Monday, said Oghiaghome resigned in order to pursue his political ambition.
This position runs contrary to the report in the media that the former COS was sacked.
Oghiadhome was reported to have been involved in contract scams.
The scams were traced to the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation.
But Abati told newsmen on Monday: “Nothing extensive to say other than to confirm that the Chief of Staff has resigned his appointment and it has nothing to do with the speculation that one online has tried to put out.
“The President received the letter today, which is titled: Letter of resignation, and it says he wishes to pursue other political necessities in our great party.
“You would recall that about two weeks ago before the President travelled to Ethiopia, he announced in Council that if there was any member of the cabinet or any major political appointee who wants to pursue some other political roles, that he had been hearing rumours that some people maybe wanted to go and pursue other things in whatever capacity, that such people are going to be engaged heavily in political activities, they should let him know.
“And if they see that they are going to be really busy, and such activities may occupy their time extraordinarily, they should please step aside or come and see him for discussion.
“That you can confirm.
“It happened in the open floor of the Council.
“And you can see what I have pointed out as the reason for the Chief of Staff’s resignation is in line with that.
“So, we find the speculation, particularly by some of the online platforms, callous, completely unreasonable, considering that this is a man who has served and who has given time and energy to the pursuit of the good interest of our country.
“Mr. President appreciates his contributions and he would like to put it on record that indeed he was a man who discharged his responsibilities diligently and the country is very grateful to him and the President personally would like to wish him well in his future endeavours.”
On the replacement for Oghiadhome, Abati said: “Not yet.”