The Zambian Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) has declared the daughter of former president Edgar Lungu, Tasila Lungu, wanted in connection with money laundering activities.

The Director General of the DEC, Nason Banda, who made the announcement at a media briefing in Lusaka on Tuesday, told journalists that Tasila, who was a Member of Parliament representing Chawama Constituency, fled the country after her father lost elections on pretext of being on maternity leave, and had remained defiant to calls from law enforcement officers to present herself for investigations.

Banda stated that the Commission was tired of issuing call outs to Tasila through her lawyers, hence the decision to place her on the wanted list.

Banda noted that the Commission wanted Tasila to explain her certain sources of income like other persons who were called for questioning after they were found with a case to answer.

He said the Commission had issued several call outs to Tasila through her lawyers since she was not in the country and had grown tired of waiting because this was prolonging the investigations which should be closed as soon as possible.

“We have been attempting to contact her to answer questions related to an ongoing investigation. Messages have been sent, and lawyers have been contacted, but Honorable Lungu has not responded. As of now, Honorable Lungu is considered a wanted person,” Banda said.

He urged Tasila to come forward and answer questions while assuring that the process will be fair and she will be treated with respect, emphasizing the importance of justice and fairness.

Banda also assured that there was no witch-hunt in the process of investigating Tasila and other politicians, emphasizing that in the past, seizures had been lifted, and property had been returned to owners after investigations were completed.

“We have issues with her, let her come and answer a few questions. It’s only fair for her to respond because we have issues with her. So we would like honourable Lungu to come and answer a few questions. We have sent call outs through her lawyers,” he said.

Banda said the DEC had, on May, 30, 2024, summoned Tasila together with the former first lady to appear before them for interviews through two separate notices signed by an Officer of the Anti-Money Laundering Unit, but despite assurances from her lawyers, Zulu and Advocates, that she would make herself available to the agency, she had failed to show up.

President Bola Tinubu has called on Nigerians to develop the habit of praying for their leaders to enable them serve diligently and strive for prosperity.

The president, who made the call in his Christmas message to citizens, said genuine prayers were required from all Nigerians, especially Christians, as they celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ so that the leaders would not deviate from the right path.

In the message he personally signed, Tinubu extended his heartfelt greetings to Nigerian Christians as they joined their counterparts globally to mark the birth of Jesus Christ and further reassured Nigerians that the country was on the path of progress towards a brighter future for every citizen.

“On this joyous Christmas Day, I extend my heartfelt greetings to Christians across Nigeria and worldwide as we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, as narrated in the Holy scriptures,” the President said in the message.

‘’Christmas embodies the fulfilment of divine prophecy and symbolises the triumph of love, peace, and unity. It is a poignant reminder that light can emerge even in the darkest times, bringing solace and hope. This belief resonates with people of all faiths. Indeed, God is with us.

“Recent tragic events in Ibadan, Okija, and Abuja deeply sadden us, and our thoughts are with those who continue to suffer from these heartbreaking incidents. We earnestly pray that such misfortunes do not revisit our families and communities and that the lives of innocents are never again cut short.

“I offer my deepest sympathies to the families enduring pain and loss this year, whether from floods, fire, or accidents. May we all find comfort and solace in our faith, the support of loved ones, and the abiding presence of Jesus Christ. Our compassionate and merciful God stands with the weak, the brokenhearted, and the sick.

“As we celebrate this blessed season, let us be mindful of those facing difficulties. They are not far from us—our neighbours, family members, and the people we encounter daily, whether in places of worship, markets, offices, or boardrooms.

“Kindness transcends financial status. Those with modest means and those with abundance need a smile or a word of encouragement.

“Let us extend similar support and prayers to our nation’s leaders. With your backing, we can serve our country diligently and strive for prosperity.

“Nigeria is on a promising path of restoration and progress, with every indication pointing toward a bright future. In the spirit of this season, let us renew our hope and belief in a prosperous Nigeria.

“For those travelling during this festive period, I wish you safe journeys. Rest assured, the government is taking all necessary steps to ensure our transportation routes are secure and convenient. We also provide free train services and subsidized road transport costs on 144 routes nationwide to ease your travels,” he said.