General Brice Oligui Nguema, who assumed power following the overthrow of President Ali Bongo Ondimba in Gabon, has issued stern warnings to contractors involved in corruption, a deeply rooted issue in the country.

He urged them to demonstrate "patriotism" and "commitment" to the country's development.

Recent audits have revealed instances of overcharging by companies, and General Oligui Nguema declared that these investigations would be revisited to ensure the overcharged amounts are returned to the state. He delivered this message before more than 200 Gabonese business leaders who were summoned to the Presidential Palace.

At the same time, state television channels displayed images of Noureddin Bongo Valentin, one of the deposed president's sons, and other former high-ranking members of the presidential cabinet, who were arrested on charges of "massive misappropriation of public funds," "falsification of the President's signature," and "high treason."

These individuals were shown alongside trunks, suitcases, and bags allegedly filled with large sums of money confiscated from their residences.

General Oligui, who leads the presidential guard and is set to be sworn in as the "president of the transition," emphasized the need for contractors to demonstrate commitment and patriotism towards the country's development. He criticized the prevailing situation, suggesting that it could not continue and that he would not tolerate it.

He encouraged contractors to change their approach, stressing the importance of responsible companies over those formed solely for immediate interests and overcharging schemes that have been widely recognized.