Centre flays 16 governors for challenging EFCC Act

• Says corruption fighting back

Centre for Human Rights & Civic Education (CHRICED) has expressed concern about the 16 state governors, who have gone to the Supreme Court to challenge the legality of the establishment of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

CHRICED’s concern is contained in a statement issued yesterday by the centre, and signed by its Executive Director, Ibrahim Zikirullahi. The lawsuit, led by Kogi State, is supported by 15 other states, including Ondo, Edo, Oyo, Ogun, Nassarawa, Kebbi, Katsina, Sokoto, Jigawa, Enugu, Benue, Anambra, Plateau, Cross River, and Niger states. They questioned the constitutionality of the EFCC establishment.

The centre said: “These state governments do not represent their constituents’ views in this case, and their actions mark a significant setback in the fight against corruption, directly challenging Nigeria’s efforts to address this issue, where the EFCC has played a crucial role.

“The implications of this lawsuit are serious. By questioning the EFCC’s legitimacy, these states threaten a vital institution essential for combating financial crimes, potentially encouraging corrupt officials and undermining the rule of law and governance integrity in Nigeria.”

It described as “particularly alarming” the fact that the Supreme Court had chosen to entertain such a “frivolous case”.

“This decision not only poses a serious threat to the anti-corruption fight in Nigeria but also raises significant concerns about the integrity of the Nigerian judiciary. The judiciary has faced substantial criticism for a series of controversial rulings and frivolous injunctions in recent times, and this case could further erode public confidence in its ability to uphold justice and protect the interests of the Nigerian people,” it added.

Describing the governors’ alliance as unprecedented, the centre said the development revealed a disturbing consensus to shield the governors from accountability, prioritising personal interests over the welfare of the Nigerian people.

It urged the governors to realise that history would label them as unpatriotic figures, who obstructed Nigeria’s fight against corruption, saying their actions would be seen as a breach of public trust and a clear example of how those in power could undermine justice for personal gain.

“We urge the Chief Justice KudiratKekere-Ekun to recognise this case as a pivotal moment in her judicial career. Its resolution will have lasting implications for judicial integrity and the fight against corruption in Nigeria. It is crucial that she treats this case with the seriousness it deserves, considering its potential impact on the rule of law.

“We also call on anti-corruption organisations, the media, and concerned citizens to closely monitor the proceedings, as this case represents a significant challenge to the judiciary amid ongoing attacks on the EFCC. Now is the time for united action against abuses of power, to reaffirm our commitment to justice, and to promote a governance system that values transparency and accountability for the benefit of the public.”