Group condemns EFCC’s alleged selective prosecution of corruption cases

The Arewa Youths Assembly (AYA) has voiced strong concerns over what it describes as an “apparent culture of selective prosecution” by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The group expressed dissatisfaction with the EFCC’s recent handling of corruption cases, accusing the agency of bias in favour of politically powerful individuals.

During a press conference in Abuja, the group’s convener, Mohammed Saliu, highlighted what he termed a troubling pattern of selective prosecution under the EFCC’s leadership, specifically targeting the agency’s chairman, Ola Olukoyede.

Saliu said, “Recent reports indicate a disturbing trend where the EFCC has been notably lax in pursuing corruption cases against prominent political figures, particularly those affiliated with the powers that be.”

He added that this selective approach not only undermines public confidence in the EFCC but also reinforces the perception that the agency is acting as an extension of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

The group cited high-profile figures such as former Kano State governor Umar Ganduje and current Senate President Godswill Akpabio, both of whom have faced public allegations of corruption. “The silence surrounding these cases speaks volumes about the political motivations that may be at play,” Saliu remarked, questioning the EFCC’s independence and objectivity in its fight against corruption.

AYA further called on the EFCC to demonstrate its commitment to justice by taking swift action against these politically exposed individuals, regardless of their affiliations.

“Nigerians deserve to see a commitment to justice that goes beyond political affiliations,” the group emphasised. They warned that the current climate, where only opposition figures or those not favoured by top government officials face scrutiny, is eroding public trust in the country’s institutions and discouraging citizens from reporting corruption.

In a stern call for action, the Arewa Youths Assembly demanded that the EFCC begin immediate prosecutions against these figures to restore faith in its operations. The group also urged the commission to clarify its decision-making processes, arguing that transparency and impartiality are crucial to rebuilding public confidence.

“The EFCC must act without further delay to prove that it is not a tool of political persecution but a genuine defender of justice and integrity,” the statement concluded. AYA reiterated the need for a fair and consistent approach to tackling corruption in Nigeria, stressing that only through such measures can the pervasive culture of corruption be addressed effectively.