Barrister Kenneth Udeze, National Chairman of the Action Alliance (AA), has called for the dissolution of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), asserting that the agency has repeatedly overstepped its mandate and failed to effectively combat corruption since its establishment in 2004.
Speaking with *Sunday Independent*, Udeze, a former National Legal Adviser for the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) Nigeria, criticized the EFCC’s performance, stating it has not significantly contributed to addressing economic sabotage and financial crimes such as bank fraud, money laundering, and forgery. He highlighted the apparent impunity of many government officials who are guilty of such offenses yet remain unpunished.
Udeze’s comments come in light of a recent lawsuit filed by 16 states at the Supreme Court, seeking to declare the EFCC unconstitutional. He argued that the EFCC operates similarly to other investigative agencies like the Police CID and ICPC, yet its operatives often engage in actions driven by personal vendettas.
Barrister Onyinye-Ghandi Chukwunyere, spokesperson for the African Action Congress (AAC), found the states’ move intriguing but expressed concern over the motives of governors who may be facing corruption investigations. He criticized their focus on protecting themselves rather than addressing the pressing economic issues facing Nigerians.
Conversely, Barrister Blessing Joseph Afang, a human rights lawyer, argued against scrapping the EFCC, emphasizing the agency’s achievements. She suggested that reforms are necessary to clarify its powers and align its operations with constitutional provisions to prevent conflicts with state authorities. Afang noted that the EFCC was created under the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission Establishment Act of 2004, which was passed by the National Assembly.
Afang further stressed the importance of the EFCC’s independence and suggested that its chairman should be appointed by an independent committee to avoid political interference.
Lagos-based lawyer Barrister Emeka Iheonu supported the EFCC, stating that its establishment was lawful and questioning the motives behind the states’ legal challenge. He acknowledged the agency’s successes in tackling financial crimes but admitted that some officials may act unethically, emphasizing the need for accountability rather than dissolution.
As the debate continues, the future of the EFCC remains uncertain amid calls for reform and questions about its role in Nigeria’s fight against corruption.
