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Tag: EFCC

  • EFCC: our mandate tackles corruption, not opposition

    EFCC: our mandate tackles corruption, not opposition

    • Commission insists it’s a non-aligned body

    • War against graft not focused on opposition leaders, says Showunmi

    The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) yesterday said its mandate is to investigate and prosecute corruption cases and not to hound the opposition.

    The commission said suspects of corrupt practices from the ruling party, opposition party and non-partisan actors have no immunity.

    A former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship aspirant in Ogun State, Segun Showunmi, has also said the war against financial and economic crimes should not be perceived as targeted against opposition figures.

    A statement by its Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, said the commission would not succumb to blackmail.

    The statement said: “The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is aware of the frenzy of accusations by some political actors across the country, questioning its operation. 

    “Claims of ‘Weaponisation of the EFCC’, ‘Erosion of EFCC’s Independence’, ‘Persecution of opposition politicians’, ‘Politicisation of EFCC’s operations’ and other assumptions contained in a recent media statement by some politicians, are deliberate misrepresentations of the commission’s task in bringing suspects of economic and financial crimes to book.

    “First, the commission’s weapon is its Establishment Act, which provides the ground norm of its activities. The Act mandates the commission to investigate and prosecute all economic and financial crimes.

    “The only exceptions to criminal prosecution by the commission are political officers granted constitutional immunity during their tenure.

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    “Suspects of corrupt practices from the ruling party, opposition party, and non-partisan actors have no immunity and are being equally investigated and prosecuted by the EFCC.”

    The EFCC said it has been investigating and prosecuting strong members of the ruling party and those in opposition without bias.

    It added: “A checklist of arrests and prosecutions by the commission in the last two years under the current leadership shows that strong members of the ruling party, such as former governors, ministers, and others not publicly known, are sharing tables with a motley number of opposition politicians as well and others. 

    “The truth about the EFCC is that it is only faithful to its mandate and nothing else. This mandate is about tackling corruption and not any imaginary adversary or political motive.

    “The commission finds insinuation made by opposition politicians that “there is a discernible pattern of persecution of the opposition by the EFCC with the sole objective of weakening same for the benefit of the ruling APC” quite untenable.

    “Where is persecution in asking a suspect of corrupt practice to account for his sleaze? Is stealing, embezzlement of public funds, contract fraud, money laundering and other corrupt practices excusable for some?

    “Corruption has no gender, religion, tribe, political party or other extraneous alignment. Selective outrage cannot be a defence against a criminal investigation for graft. The crucial question is, are opposition politicians being investigated or prosecuted by the commission wrongly accused?”

    The EFCC said its operations do not threaten democracy.

    The commission promised not to succumb to blackmail and abandon the investigation of cases.

    It added: “What threatens democracy is not the EFCC doing its job but the attempt to intimidate or blackmail it into abandoning investigation allegations against corrupt opposition politicians for fear of accusations of selectivity.

    Also, Showunmi, a former spokesman to ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar during the 2019 presidential election buildup, stated that the ongoing arrest and investigation of past public officials by EFCC operatives or other anti-graft agencies should not be perceived as a threat to Nigeria’s democracy or an attempt to crush opposition leaders.

    Showunmi warned that what really constitutes threats to the nation’s democracy are attempts by political actors and some opposition leaders to weaponise their status as immunity from arrest and prosecution for any alleged infraction.

    The ex-governorship aspirant in Ogun State on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 general election stated this yesterday in reaction to the allegation by some key opposition figures who on Sunday cried out aginst what they called Federal Government’s use of anti-graft agencies to intimidate, weaken and obliterate opposition forces ahead of the 2027 general election.

    In a statement to The Nation yesterday, Showunmi, who is the Convener of ‘The Alternative,’ a movement rooting for credible leaders, good governance, and accountability, stated that anti-corruption is neither anti-opposition nor should the investigation of any public official be interpreted as persecution.

    He warned that the country would not trade the rule of law for political convenience, stressing that those with clean hands have nothing to fear, while any past public official with questions to answer should also answer them before the law.

    He said: “Nigeria’s democracy is not under threat because public officials are being investigated. It is under threat when political actors attempt to weaponise opposition status as immunity from the law.

    “The Nigerian Constitution is clear. It mandates the State to abolish corruption and abuse of power. It does not create exemptions for opposition leaders, former office holders, or political coalitions. The only immunity recognised by law is limited, specific, and temporary and it ends when a public officer leaves office.To suggest otherwise is to invent a privilege unknown to the Constitution.

    “Investigation is not persecution. The EFCC and other anti-graft agencies are legally bound to investigate allegations of economic and financial crimes. Investigation, arrest, and prosecution when carried out within the law do not violate fundamental rights. This is settled by the Supreme Court, not by political press conferences.

    “Calling an investigation ‘victimisation’ does not make it so. It only signals an attempt to pre-empt justice with propaganda.

    “What truly threatens Nigeria’s multiparty democracy is not the EFCC doing its job, but the growing attempt to intimidate, de-legitimise, or blackmail anti-corruption institutions whenever investigations touch politically exposed persons.

    “Democracy does not mean freedom from scrutiny. It means submission to the law, especially by those who once held public trust.”

  • Presidency, opposition clash over EFCC, ICPC

    Presidency, opposition clash over EFCC, ICPC

    Atiku, Obi, Mark allege witch-hunt

    A row broke out yesterday over the activities of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), and security agencies.

    Leaders of opposition parties accused the Federal Government of weaponising the anti-corruption agencies to silence dissent.

    They alleged that the government was using the institutions to oppress opposition governors so that they could defect to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

    But, taking an exception to the allegation, the Presidency said in a statement by the Presidential Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, that the opposition leaders are trying to undermine the anti-graft institutions through subterfuge, scapegoating and politicisation of accountability in a bid to escape scrutiny.

    Some prominent politicians, including members of the ruling and opposition parties, have been invited for questioning over their roles in previous administrations.

    They include former Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN), and Dr. Chris Ngige.

    According to the opposition leaders, the anti-corruption bodies have become willing tools in the hands of the government to witchhunt those opposed to government policies and programmes.

    In a statement, the National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Senator David Mark; former Vice President Atiku Abubakar; Mallam Aliyu Batagarawa; Peopels Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain, Chief Bode George, former Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and former All Progressives Congress (APC) National Chairman, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, complained about the alleged victimisation of the opposition. 

    It’s empty search for scapegoats, says Presidency

    Onanuga, in a statement titled: ‘A failed opposition engaging in subterfuge and empty search for scapegoats,’ chided the opposition elements for undermining legitimate and democratic institutions.

    The statement reads: “Nigeria’s so-called opposition politicians, comprising some of those left in a dying political party and a sprinkling of some failed political office aspirants regrouping in a platform struggling to find its bearings, are amusing lots.

     “They blow hot air, seek scapegoats for their failure and move to confuse the polity in a desperate search for cheap political gains.

     “On Sunday, a group of opposition figures gathered to sing their familiar tune, hoping their cheerleaders would see their action as a blistering attack from a seemingly virile opposition group.

     “They alleged a threat to multi-party democracy because many top politicians are joining the governing All Progressives Congress of their own free will. Our constitution guarantees freedom of association and affords our people the right to change their political leanings at any time of their choosing.

     “None of the people who joined the governing APC was pressured to do so. They all did so of their own free will. They are being motivated by the noticeable gains of President Bola Tinubu’s reform programme.

     “We may ask: when politicians were moving in droves to the now-dying Peoples Democratic Party between 2000 and 2015, was Nigeria’s democracy imperilled?

     “Also, investigations by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have begun exposing those with some explanation to give regarding their stewardship in office and management of public funds entrusted to them. These politicians now accuse President Tinubu of weaponising the EFCC for political purposes.

     “While the Presidency does not speak for the EFCC and believes the agency can speak for itself, we must reiterate that the EFCC is an independent institution established by law and empowered to carry out its statutory responsibilities without interference or favour.

     “The agency’s mandate is to investigate and prosecute financial crimes, irrespective of the personalities involved, their political affiliations, or their positions in society. We find it curious that the same people who claimed they want to rescue Nigeria are now the ones waging a war of attrition against accountability and probity. Those who have cases to answer before EFCC should be bold and brave enough to defend themselves if they are clean.

     “President Tinubu does not issue directives to any anti-corruption agency on whom to investigate, arrest, or prosecute.

    “President Tinubu has significant state issues to address rather than engage in political targeting.

     “The prosecution is conducted by the court, not by any sleight of hand, and those found not guilty will receive a clean bill of health.

    “Allegations of “weaponisation” are distractions from these politicians, who are running short of campaign issues to challenge President Tinubu and the APC’s success in less than three years in office.

     “No one is above the law. Everyone must be accountable for their actions, both in and out of the office. Political affiliation should not be a shield against EFCC statutory work, which recently led to Nigeria’s removal from the FATF grey list.

     “We have taken cognisance of the signatories to the statement. It is instructive that some of them were previously investigated and prosecuted by the EFCC even before President Tinubu took office in 2023.

     “Some of these politicians have also been indicted in international financial probes for money laundering, with some of their accomplices jailed in foreign lands.

     “Are they now signing statements because their chickens are coming home to roost?

     “We advise those politicians not to undermine the integrity of our nation’s institutions and the collective resolve to fight corruption by weaponising politics to escape accountability and encourage impunity.

     “The fight against corruption is a collective responsibility and should not be trivialised by baseless allegations, jaundiced or politicised narratives.”

    Atiku, Obi, Mark: Tinubu trying to silence us

    The opposition leaders alleged that the Federal Government is using anti-corruption and security agencies against them, warning that multi-party democracy is threatened ahead of 2027 polls.

    They said the EFCC, (ICPC), the Police and other security agencies have becomes tools of political intimidation, selective justice and systematic persecution

    They said concerns are mounting across the country that state power is being deployed “not for prevention of economic crimes, but for persecution of perceived political adversaries with the ultimate aim of weakening opposition voices and dismantling Nigeria’s multiparty democracy.”

    According to them, Nigerians are witnessing “a covert undemocratic agenda to ensure that all state governments fall under the control of the President’s party, not through transparent electoral contests, but by secretly intimidating opposition governors via the anti-corruption apparatus until they succumb and defect.”

    The opposition leaders said the recent defections of opposition governors into the ruling party have “reinforced public suspicion that political pressure, not ideological or personal persuasion, is driving this realignment.

    They insisted that the alleged agenda also targets “key opposition figures perceived as architects of emerging coalitions ahead of the 2027 general election”.

    They said: “This project, if allowed to continue unchecked, poses a grave danger to Nigeria’s democratic future.”

    Flaying the government for weaponising the anti-graft bodies, they also said: “There is a discernible pattern of persecution of the opposition by the EFCC with the sole objective of weakening same for the benefit of the ruling APC”.

    They added: “Months ago a minister was implicated in a financial scandal so blatant that only sustained public outrage forced her resignation yet long after stepping down she has neither been charged nor arraigned by the EFCC and is now actively involved in the President’s re-election campaign.

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    “Another minister remained in office despite the university he claimed to have attended, publicly denying his academic certificate, although he later resigned months later; no charges have been filed.

    “Nigerians are witnessing the sudden empowerment of certain political actors. including individuals appointed to federal executive positions after crossing from the opposition, but still claim to be members of the opposition party whose unstated mandate in the public’s eyes appears to include the systematic destabilisation of opposition parties through the creation of factions, inducement and the exploitation of judicial processes allegedly funded by state resources.”

    “The EFCC is a critical national institution created to safeguard Nigeria’s economic integrity yet today many Nigerians fear that its independence is steadily being eroded.”

    They cautioned that an agency established for prevention and prosecution of economic crimes risks losing public confidence if it is widely perceived as “an instrument of partisan politics rather than a neutral enforcer of the law.”

    The opposition leaders called on Nigerian civil society groups and the international community to remain vigilant, insisting that the fight against corruption must be rooted in fairness, transparency and due process.

    They said only an impartial application of the law can preserve Nigeria’s democracy restore confidence in public institutions and ensure that anticorruption efforts serve the national interest rather than partisan political ends.

  • ADC backs Malami, condemns EFCC’s revocation of bail

    ADC backs Malami, condemns EFCC’s revocation of bail

    The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has expressed full support for former Attorney General of the Federation (SGF), Mallam Abubakar Malami (SAN), affirming his innocence and constitutional rights following the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s (EFCC) revocation of his bail.

    In a statement on Saturday, ADC national publicity secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, said the party stands firmly with Malami, describing the EFCC’s action as politically motivated rather than a genuine law enforcement measure.

    The party noted that all evidence indicates Malami did not breach any conditions of his initial bail and had fully cooperated with investigators. 

    ADC also raised concerns over the timing of the revocation, which followed Malami’s attendance at a political rally in Kebbi State, where he is seeking the governorship.

    “The timing of this action gives the impression that the EFCC’s move aims to limit Malami’s political activities rather than advance justice,” the party said.

    While reiterating support for anti-corruption efforts, ADC warned that selective investigations and the use of anti-graft agencies against political opponents undermine public confidence and weaken the credibility of the entire system. 

    The party emphasised that no government agency has the constitutional authority to suspend a citizen’s political rights or dictate where those rights can be exercised.

    Describing the politicisation of anti-corruption efforts as a form of corruption itself, ADC urged the EFCC to conduct impartial investigations and prosecutions. 

    The party demanded Malami’s immediate release on bail without conditions perceived to stifle his political ambitions, stressing that he must be presumed innocent until proven guilty by a competent court.

  • Body lauds EFCC’s renewed fight against corruption

    Body lauds EFCC’s renewed fight against corruption

    • *Charges commission to recover loots linked to officials of last govt

    The Arewa Youth Advocates for Equity and Justice (AYAFEJ) has expressed satisfaction and unwavering support for the ongoing anti-corruption efforts of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) under the current administration.

    The group said it viewed the recent actions taken against individuals under investigation for alleged mismanagement of public funds as a vital step toward restoring integrity, accountability, and public trust in government institutions.

    The organisation said this in a statement signed by its National President, Sani Ahmad on Thursday in Abuja.

    The group urged the EFCC and President Bola Tinubu to make sure that those responsible for the failure of late Muhammadu Buhari’s administration as a result of their betrayal of the trusts entrusted to them by him faces the consequences for their actions of stealing and destroying the trusts.

    According to the organisation, those involved never deserved any mercy or leniency.

    The statement said: “For too long, Nigerians—especially the poor and vulnerable—have suffered the consequences of corruption, embezzlement, and misuse of public resources. While many entrusted with national responsibilities under previous administrations were expected to champion the welfare of the masses, a number of them allegedly betrayed that trust. It is therefore reassuring to see that no individual, no matter how highly placed, is considered above the law.

    “We urge the EFCC and even the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria Mr. Bola Ahmed Tinubu to make sure that those responsible for the failure of late Muhammadu Buhari’s administration as a result of their betrayal of the trusts entrusted to them by him faces the consequences for their actions of stealing and destroying the trusts. The advocates are insisting that those involved never deserve any mercy or leniency.

    “We specifically commend the EFCC for its firm action in inviting, questioning, and detaining top former officials currently under investigation, including former Attorney-General Abubakar Malami (SAN), in accordance with the law. As widely reported, these actions are part of ongoing investigations into alleged financial irregularities during their time in office. AYAFEJ emphasizes that these investigations are not acts of political persecution but essential steps toward transparency and justice.

  • Apologise to Dubai-based businessman for wrongful ‘wanted’ declaration, court orders EFCC

    Apologise to Dubai-based businessman for wrongful ‘wanted’ declaration, court orders EFCC

    The Federal High Court sitting in Kaduna has ordered the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to apologise to Dubai-based businessman, Alhaji Rabiu Auwalu Tijjani, for unlawfully declaring him wanted, ruling that the action violated his fundamental rights.

    Delivering judgment, Justice H. Buhari held that the EFCC acted outside its statutory powers when it published Tijjani’s name and photograph on its website without first obtaining a court order or exhausting all lawful procedures. The decision was contained in a certified true copy issued on Thursday.

    Tijjani, a Kano-born gold merchant based in Dubai, filed a fundamental rights enforcement suit against the EFCC and businessman Ifeanyi Ezeokoli. The case stemmed from a disputed multi-million-dollar gold transaction between both men dating back to 2022.

    According to court documents, the parties initially reconciled an overpayment of ₦26 million. However, an independent audit later allegedly uncovered an additional discrepancy of more than $2 million in Tijjani’s favour. Tijjani subsequently reported the matter to the Department of State Services (DSS), and both sides submitted documents to the agency for investigation.

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    While the DSS inquiry was still ongoing, Ezeokoli petitioned the EFCC. Tijjani told the court that although the EFCC contacted him via WhatsApp and he sent a representative, neither of them was invited again before the Commission proceeded to declare him wanted — a move he said tarnished his global business reputation.

    Justice Buhari ruled that although the EFCC is empowered to declare suspects wanted, such actions must follow due process, including securing an order of a competent court. The arrest warrant the agency obtained from a Magistrate’s Court, the court held, did not authorise a public declaration.

    The judge further emphasised that the EFCC must not interfere in matters arising purely from civil or commercial disputes, especially where another security agency — in this instance, the DSS — is already investigating the case. He cited appellate court decisions warning investigative bodies against being used to settle business disagreements or enforce debt repayment.

    The court declared the EFCC’s publication unconstitutional and a violation of Tijjani’s right to personal liberty, freedom of movement, and due process. 

    It then ordered the Immediate removal of Tijjani’s name and photograph from the EFCC website; a public apology to the applicant and payment of ₦5 million in damages.

    Tijjani had sought ₦1.5 billion and additional reliefs, but only part of his request was granted.

  • BREAKING: EFCC detains Malami over alleged terrorism financing

    BREAKING: EFCC detains Malami over alleged terrorism financing

    The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has detained a former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN) for alleged terrorism financing.

    The ex-Minister is also to explain issues relating to money laundering, especially operation of suspicious accounts.

    Malami has been asked to account for his investment of about N10billion in Kebbi State, whereabouts of $322million Abacha loot recovered from Swiss account and about $22million from Island of Jersey in the UK.

    The EFCC was holding on to Malami as at 10pm on Tuesday because he has not been able to meet his bail conditions.

    But the ex-AGF said his public record in office stands in direct contradiction to any insinuation of complicity in terrorism financing.

    A top EFCC source said the allegations against Malami were many which will require some days to go through.

    The source said:”We have detained the ex-Minister for terrorism financing and the whereabouts of Abacha loot recovered from Switzerland and Island of Jersey in the UK.

    “His sudden wealth of N10billion investments in Kebbi State are under investigation. We may attach some of these assets.

    “We are likely to interrogate one of his wives on her role on N4billion Anchor Borrowers cash advanced by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

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    “He has a lot to clarify but he has not been able to meet bail conditions. He might be with us until he fulfils these.”

    But Malami has rejected allegations of terrorism financing.

     He cited his key roles in Nigeria’s AML/CFT Reforms and FATF Grey-List exit to dismiss the terrorism financing insinuations.

    In a statement on X, Malami said: “My attention has been drawn to a recent publication in which my name was mentioned in connection with allegations of terrorism financing and so-called “links” to persons described as terror suspects or alleged financiers.

    “I consider it necessary, in the interest of truth, justice and public record, to make the following clarifications.

    “First, I state clearly and unequivocally that I have never at any time been accused, invited, interrogated, investigated or charged by any security, law-enforcement, regulatory or intelligence agency—within or outside Nigeria—in respect of terrorism financing or any related offence.

    “Secondly, even the retired military officer cited as the principal source in the said publication categorically admitted that he was not accusing me, or other named individuals, of financing terrorism.

    ” His own account, as reported, was limited to a vague assertion that certain suspects allegedly had some form of “business” or “institutional” relationship with various persons.

    ” That important clarification was, unfortunately, overshadowed by a headline and framing capable of misleading well-meaning members of the public into drawing inaccurate and damaging conclusions which was unfortunately politically manipulated by my political opponents to create mischievous insinuations implying my involvement in terrorism financing.

    “Terrorism financing is a grave crime with devastating consequences for national security and human life. Any attempt—whether by direct allegation or indirect innuendo—to associate an individual with such an offence must be grounded in verifiable facts, due process and lawful findings, not in conjecture, speculation, or guilt by association. To suggest that lawful professional or institutional engagements can, without more, be read as evidence of terrorism financing is both mischievous and unjust.

    “For the avoidance of doubt, my public record in office stands in direct contradiction to any insinuation of complicity in terrorism financing. During my tenure as Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, I worked with other arms of government and relevant institutions to strengthen—not weaken—Nigeria’s legal and institutional framework against money laundering and the financing of terrorism.

    “Among other efforts:

    ●The Federal Government, through collaborative work involving the Federal Ministry of Justice, the National Assembly and other stakeholders, established an independent Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) by law, in order to meet global standards on operational autonomy and to restore Nigeria’s standing within the international financial-intelligence community.

    ●We supported and saw to the enactment of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, which repealed the older Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act and provided a more comprehensive and stringent framework for combating money laundering and related offences, including those that may underpin terrorism financing.

    ●We similarly worked on the passage and implementation of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, which strengthened Nigeria’s legal regime against terrorism, updated offences and penalties, and reinforced provisions dealing specifically with the financing of terrorism in line with international standards and United Nations obligations.

    ●In furtherance of these laws, my office cooperated closely with key domestic institutions—such as the NFIU, the Central Bank of Nigeria, law-enforcement and regulatory agencies—and with international partners, to improve coordination, information-sharing and compliance across the anti-money-laundering and counter-terrorism-financing (AML/CFT) architecture.”

  • Court orders FG, NNPC boss, EFCC to respond to suit seeking Ojulari’s sack

    Court orders FG, NNPC boss, EFCC to respond to suit seeking Ojulari’s sack

    • …declines ex parte motion

    A High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has issued an order directed President Bola Tinubu and the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited, Bayo Ojulari, to respond to a request to compel the President to suspend him from office pending the determination of a suit querying his competence for the job.

    Justice Mohammed Madugu (sitting in the Bwari division of the court) issued the order in a ruling on an ex parte motion filed by a group, the Incorporated Trustees of Initiative for Promotion of Civic Obligation and Sustainable Peace.

    Justice Madudu declined the group’s requests, made ex parte, that President Tinubu be compelled to suspend Ojulari or that the NNPC boss be ordered to step down forthwith.

    The two reliefs, in respect of which President Tinubu and Ojulari are to file a response, are:

    *An interim order directing and mandating the first defendant, in the exercise of his the constitutional duty, to suspend or direct the third defendant (Bayo Ojulari) to temporarily step aside from office as the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited and in his stead appoint another person in acting capacity, pending the conclusion of the investigation by the second defendant (EFCC) pending the hearing and determination of the motion on notice.

    *An order of interim injunction restraining the third defendant (Bayo Ojulari), being subject of ongoing or an investigation by the second defendant (EFCC) over the aforementioned allegations bothering on gross misconduct, abuse of office, act of money laundering, financial and economic crimes in the discharge of his duties, from discharging duties or exercising the functions of the office of the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited, pending the hearing and determination of the motion on notice.

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    The requests were part of the six principal reliefs sought by the group in the motion ex parte it filed on November 27.

    The President is listed as the first defendant in the suit, while Ojulari is named as the third defendant.

    The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which the plaintiff claimed is currently investigating Ojulari, is named as the second defendant.

    The judge granted the following reliefs:

    The court issued an order directing the defendants/respondents to show cause within 14 days why prayers three and four (highlighted above) should not be granted.

    Granted leave to the claimant to effect substituted service of all court documents it has filed so far, in relation to the case, on the President through the office of the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) at the Federal Ministry of Justice, Abuja.

    It is also ordered that the claimant serve the originating documents on the NNPC boss “through the officer or staff of the Legal Department of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, at its head office at NNPC Towers, Herbert Macaulay Way, Central Business District. Abuja. “

    The judge also issued an order deeming the substituted service on the President and Ojulari as proper and valid.

    He granted an accelerated hearing in the case and adjourned till January 19 for the hearing.

  • EFCC hands over N96.5m to victims of ponzi scheme in Enugu

    EFCC hands over N96.5m to victims of ponzi scheme in Enugu

    The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has handed over N96.5 million to victims of ponzi schemes in Enugu State.

    Its spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, said this in a statement on Friday in Abuja.

    Oyewale said the step was in line with the anti-graft agency’s commitment to combating economic and financial crimes and ensuring restitution for victims of fraudulent schemes.

    He said the commission received a petition dated Sept. 30, 2024 from one Chijioke Ngwu and others against one Oyubu  Akpojewve, also known as Justice Nonso Chima,  Managing Director, Leverage Index Limited.

    Oyewale said the petitioners alleged that Akpojewve lured them into investing the said sum in a ponzi scheme.

    “He presented offers to prospective investors in two formats; what he called the Monthly Plan and another one called Live Trading.

    “The Monthly Plan required that an investor transfers a minimum sum of N2.5 million or more to a UBA account number for the firm to use and trade in Forex.

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    “After this, a monthly profit of N200,000. 00 or eight per cent of the total money invested is given to the investor, while the initial capital of N2.5million or more is retained for further monthly trading if the investor so wishes.”

    “The Live Trading format is such that an investor transfers any amount of money to Leverage Index into the said account for a live trading session on a designated day for the firm to trade with on the same designated day and remit 10 per cent of the total sum transferred initially as profit to the investor the next day”, the petitioners said.

    According to the petitioners, after investing the said sum, Akpojewve, who presented himself as a registered forex trader, trading in foreign exchange, started with excuses bordering on disagreement with his trading partners and before they knew it, he shut down his office and became unreachable.

    Oyewale said operatives of the commission swung into action and discovered that Akpojewve conspired with his cohorts to defraud unsuspecting victims of their hard-earned money.

    While handing over the recovered money to the victims, the EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, represented by the commission’s Enugu Zonal Director, Mr Daniel Isei, reiterated the EFCC’s readiness to combat economic and financial crimes.

    “My own final word, beyond giving you the draft, is that this should also serve as a lesson. We should be more circumspect. We should be more vigilant during every business proposal.”

    Ukwu Ernest Ikechukwu, one of the victims of Akpojewve who received N19.9million draft commended the commission for its level of professionalism and integrity in discharging its duties.

    Another recipient of the recovered funds, Ikechukwu Ogbunubi who received N10million, lauded the commission for its dogged efforts in recovering the whole money.

    Other recipients include Temple Lewis Maduka who got N7.5million; Ngwu A, who got N19.4million; and Alphonsus Umeh who received N7million.

  • Education accountability network seeks EFCC update on NSCDC investigation

    Education accountability network seeks EFCC update on NSCDC investigation

    The Education Accountability Network has urged the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to provide a comprehensive update on its investigation involving senior officers of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).

    In a statement issued in Abuja and signed by its convener, Tola Abegunde, the network said transparent communication on the matter is vital because the NSCDC plays a key role in school protection under the Safe Schools Initiative.

    Abegunde noted that the public deserves clarity on the progress of the probe, especially in view of recent security challenges affecting schools across the country.

    The group referenced reports that some senior NSCDC officers were invited and handed over to the EFCC following earlier directives issued by the commission’s chairman, Ola Olukoyede, to question officers and contractors linked to the case.

    “The EFCC must inform Nigerians about the current status of this investigation,” Abegunde said, adding that providing updates would strengthen public confidence in the process.

    The network stressed that concerns raised over procurement processes, contract approvals and financial management in the agency highlight the need for stronger institutional oversight.

    It noted that while schools in several regions continue to face security risks, it is important for all funds designated for safeguarding educational institutions to be properly utilised.

    Abegunde added that the network expects the investigation to be concluded and appropriate actions taken in line with the law.

    The group also called on the federal government to ensure due process is followed, saying that accountability remains essential to restoring public trust in security institutions.

    It further encouraged the Ministry of Interior and the National Security Adviser to strengthen oversight of the NSCDC to enhance procurement standards, financial controls and personnel conduct.

    Abegunde reaffirmed the network’s commitment to promoting transparency in education governance and supporting efforts to keep learners safe across the country.

  • Court warns EFCC chair over failure to release 27 wrongly seized houses

    Court warns EFCC chair over failure to release 27 wrongly seized houses

    A Federal High Court in Abuja has warned the chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) about the consequences of his alleged failure to comply with its October 31 judgment.

    The court had ordered the commission to immediately release 27 houses it had wrongly seized on the assumption that they were acquired with the proceeds of crime.

    The warning is contained in a Form 48 issued on Tuesday by the court’s Registrar and addressed directly to the Executive Chairman of the EFCC.

    It reads: “To the Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) of Plot 301/302, Institute and Research Cadastral District, Jabi, Abuja.

    “Take notice that unless you obey the direction contained in the order of the Federal High Court, made on October 31, 2025, which ordered you to immediately release the property documents to the property owners/respondents in suit no: FHC/ABJ/CS/348/2025, you will be guilty of contempt of court.

    “A copy of the said order of court, which was earlier served on you, is hereby annexed for ease of reference.

    “This court has been informed that even as of today, Tuesday, December 2, 2025, you are yet to comply with the lawful order of the Federal High Court by refusing to release the property documents to the property owners/respondents.

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    “You are hereby directed to comply with the order forthwith, or you will be guilty of contempt

    of court.”

    The EFCC had, on March 13, obtained an ex parte interim forfeiture order against the 27 properties located across the country.

    The court had ordered the commission to publish the forfeiture within 14 days for interested parties to appear and show why they should not be permanently forfeited to the Federal Government.

    Following its publication of the interim forfeiture order in a national daily on April 4, as ordered by the court, James Ikechukwu Okwete and his company, Jamec West African Limited, claimed ownership of 26 properties, while Adebukunola Iyabode Oladapo showed interest in House No: 12 Fandriana Close, Wuse 2, Abuja.

    Okwete, Jamec Limited and Oladapo objected to EFCC’s subsequent application for final forfeiture of the properties.

    In a judgment delivered on October 31, Justice Joyce Abdulmalik upheld the objection by Okwete, Jamec and Oladapo, dismissed EFCC’s application for final forfeiture, vacated the earlier order for interim forfeiture, and ordered the commission to immediately release the properties.

    In the October 31 judgment, Justice Joyce Abdulmalik said, based on her analysis of the evidence presented before the court, “I firmly find that the property owner/respondent’s (Okwete’s) affidavit to show cause has merit.

    “Additionally, I hold in favour of the Adebukunola Iyabode Oladapo being a person interested in House Number 12 Fandriana Close, Wuse 2, Abuja, FCT, that since the learned senior counsel for the applicant (EFCC) has informed the court that it has no objection to her affidavit to show cause, that her affidavit filed to show cause, stands substantiated in its entirety.

    “Without more, I forthwith set aside and vacate in its entirety the interim order of forfeiture granted on March 13, 2025, to the applicant in respect of the properties listed in the schedule attached to the applicant’s ex parte originating motion.

    “Accordingly, I order the immediate release of the aforementioned properties/its documents to the property owner/respondent and the House Number 12 Fandriana Close, Wuse 2, Abuja, FCT to Adebukunola lyabode Oladapo, respectively.

    “In that vein, the applicant’s motion for final forfeiture, along with the corresponding responses filed, are now otiose. I so hold,” Justice Abdulmalik said.

    But the lawyer to Okwete and Jamec Limited, Serekowei Larry (SAN), has written to the Chairman of the EFCC complaining about the commission’s alleged failure to comply with the judgment.

    The November 27 letter, written by Larry on behalf of Okwete and Jamec Limited, reads: “We write as counsel to Mr. James Okwete and his company ~ Jamec West Africa Limited, the property owners,’ to formally apprise you of the events that have followed this case since October 31, 2025 when judgment was given against you.

    “As indicated above, judgment was given by the Federal High Court, coram: Hon. Justice Joyce O. Abdulmalik on Friday, October 31, 2025, in presence of your counsel, led by Maryam Hayatudeen Esq.

    “On November 14, 2025, the judgment order was served on your good office, and nothing was done to obey it.

    “On November 26, 2025, the Federal High Court, through its Enforcement Unit, led by Mrs. Lilian Amenger, proceeded to your office to execute the judgment which simply required your office to hand over the title documents of the properties, subject matter of the suit, to the officials of the court,

    “In straight words, your office refused to do so, thereby blatantly disobeying the said judgment, which in its penultimate paragraph used the words, ‘the immediate release’.

    “In any regime, talk less of a democracy, it will be the height of it, if judgments of court are blatantly disobeyed. We however, want to believe that you are not aware of what happened, hence this letter.

    “We anticipate your positive reactions within reasonable time before we take further steps.”