The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) finds itself under intense scrutiny following its actions in the case against former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello. The Niger Delta Youth Congress (NDYC) has emerged as a vocal critic, accusing the anti-graft agency of potential overreach and disregard for due process.
At the heart of the controversy lies the EFCC’s decision to charge Bello to court, despite having concluded its investigations. This move has raised questions about the agency’s adherence to legal procedures and the rule of law, as the former governor no longer has any active dealings with the Commission.
According to the NDYC, Bello is only required to appear in court on the next scheduled hearing date or upon being formally served with court documents. This fact has fueled allegations that the EFCC’s actions may be driven by excessive zeal rather than strict adherence to due process.
“The EFCC’s conduct in this case risks undermining public confidence in the agency and its ability to carry out its mandate impartially,” said Comrade Israel Uwejeyan, National Coordinator of the NDYC. “We demand that the Commission exercise restraint and operate within the confines of the law, avoiding any perception of arbitrary or overreaching conduct.”
The youth congress has stressed that the fight against corruption, while noble, must be waged in strict adherence to ethical principles and the rule of law. Failure to do so, they warn, could have far-reaching consequences for the EFCC’s credibility and legitimacy as the nation’s premier anti-corruption body.
Calls have been made for the EFCC to bolster transparency and accountability in its operations, ensuring that due process is meticulously followed in all cases, particularly those involving high-profile individuals like Yahaya Bello. As the custodian of Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts, the agency bears a tremendous responsibility to lead by example, upholding the principles of fairness and justice.