The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has ordered the withdrawal of charges filed against Maryam Isah Shehu and Abubakar Shuraim Abdulhamad, following their arraignment before the Federal High Court in Abuja.

The two young Nigerians were arraigned on Thursday, August 20, 2026, before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik over allegations bordering on cybercrime, cyberstalking and the dissemination of malicious information against the EFCC.

The Commission had maintained that the alleged conduct fell under Section 24(2)(c) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) Act, 2015, as amended in 2024, with the offence punishable under Section 24(2)(c)(ii) of the same Act.

However, despite the Commission’s position on the allegations, Olukoyede exercised leniency after considering the passionate pleas and apology offered by the father of Maryam Shehu, as well as appeals from well-meaning Nigerians calling for compassion and a reconsideration of the case.

Following these appeals, the EFCC Chairman directed that the charges against both defendants be withdrawn.

While ordering the withdrawal, Olukoyede warned that the Commission would not tolerate what it described as wilful attacks on its image, regardless of the medium or platform through which such attacks are carried out.

The EFCC boss also reassured Nigerians that the Commission would continue to discharge its responsibilities in accordance with its statutory mandate and in the overall interest of the nation.