A leading legal practitioner in Nigeria, Dr. Olisa Agbakoba SAN, has reiterated his argument that EFCC is not a constitutionally established agency.
Agbakoba expressed concerns about the @officialEFCC’s constitutionality and operational effectiveness. He argued that the haste in legislative processes led to considerable oversights, causing the EFCC to exceed its intended mandate and, at times, act as a policing authority.
Agobakoba in a statement asserted @oagbakoba,
“In my recent appeal to the Senate Constitution Review Committee, I called for an urgent public hearing to address significant constitutional matters surrounding law enforcement agencies and anti-corruption strategies. In my letter to the Deputy Senate President, I highlighted inconsistencies regarding the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and questioning its constitutional legitimacy. While it’s the government’s responsibility to combat corruption, I’ve observed a dissonance among law enforcement agencies that hinders progress, as supported by various Supreme Court rulings.
“During my interview on @ARISEtv today, I expressed my concerns about the @officialEFCC’s constitutionality and operational effectiveness. I suspect that the haste in legislative processes has led to considerable oversights, causing the EFCC to exceed its intended mandate and, at times, act as a policing authority. I firmly believe that the EFCC is not a constitutionally established agency, which complicates its role in enforcing anti-corruption measures.
“I advocate for a distinct constitutional framework for anti-corruption entities, emphasizing the need for a clear separation of powers to establish a robust and independent EFCC. I believe a thorough examination of the EFCC and the creation of a constitutional basis for anti-corruption agencies are essential for effectively addressing corruption and enhancing good governance in Nigeria.
“As I look forward to the outcome of the case filed by 15 states at the Supreme Court, I urge the Senate Constitution Review Committee to prioritize this issue to strengthen the country’s legal system and improve the accountability and effectiveness of law enforcement agencies. – OA.”