EFCC SLAMS OPPOSITION POLITICIANS: “SEEKING IMMUNITY FROM PROSECUTION, NOT JUSTICE”
GREATRIBUNETVNEWS–THE Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has rebuked opposition politicians, particularly leaders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), accusing them of seeking immunity from corruption prosecution and attempting to blackmail the agency.
KEY ISSUES:
– EFCC’s Stance on Investigations : The commission will not be swayed by accusations of selectivity or blackmail in its anti-corruption efforts. “The agency’s mandate is to tackle corruption, regardless of party affiliation,” EFCC spokesman Dele Oyewale stated.
-ADC’s Accusations : ADC claimed EFCC is targeting opposition members, citing the detention of former Minister Abubakar Malami, and warned against politicizing anti-graft efforts.
– EFCC’s Response : Oyewale challenged opposition politicians to prove those arrested didn’t commit offenses. “Is stealing, embezzlement, contract fraud excusable for some? Corruption has no gender, religion, tribe, or party.”
– Concerns Over Democracy : EFCC sees attempts to intimidate it as a threat to democracy, aiming to grant opposition politicians immunity from prosecution.
– Statement Highlights :
– “Where is persecution in asking a suspect to account for sleaze?”
– “Selective outrage can’t defend graft investigation.”
– “Opposition politicians seek immunity from prosecution, not justice.”
“This gambit is alien to the Nigerian constitution and the enabling law of the commission, both of which compel mandatory action against any evidence of graft irrespective of the position and political inclinations of the accused.
“The commission won’t succumb to blackmail or be railroaded into inconclusive investigations just to be seen to be non-selective in its operations.
“An amendment to the enabling act to assuage the whims of a disgruntled section of the political class calls for circumspection as it is not likely going to be in the national interest.”
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