EFCC Legitimacy: CHRICED Hails Supreme Court Ruling 

EFCC Legitimacy: CHRICED Hails Supreme Court Ruling 

The Resource Centre for Human Rights & Civic Education (CHRICED) has hailed the Supreme Court’s recent ruling upholding the legitimacy of Nigeria’s key anti-corruption agencies, marking a significant victory in the country’s battle against corruption. 

This decision comes at a time when Nigerians face escalating economic hardships and political instability, raising questions about the effectiveness of government leadership and the commitment to transparency.

The applause was made CHRICED’s Executive Director, Comrade Ibrahim M. Zikirullahi on Thursday while addressing a press conference at the Professor Abubakar Momoh House in Abuja.

He commended the court’s rejection of a lawsuit filed by 16 state governors, led by Kogi State, which sought to challenge the operations of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), and the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU).

The ruling is seen as a critical step in preserving the integrity of these institutions that play a crucial role in tackling corruption at all levels of government.

CHRICED had previously expressed concern that a decision in favor of the governors could undermine Nigeria’s fight against corruption, a sentiment echoed by citizens and civil society groups.

“The Supreme Court’s decision sends a strong message about the importance of maintaining robust mechanisms to combat corruption,” Zikirullahi stated, emphasizing the need for continued efforts to hold corrupt officials accountable.

The case had drawn public outcry, with many viewing the lawsuit as an attempt by powerful political figures to stifle anti-corruption initiatives that have made progress in exposing graft in public institutions.

The timing of the ruling coincides with Nigeria’s ongoing economic crisis, marked by rising inflation, soaring unemployment, and a surge in living costs. Since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu assumed office in May 2023, Nigerians have grappled with the consequences of stringent economic policies, including the removal of fuel subsidies and the devaluation of the naira.

These measures, intended to stabilize the economy, have instead exacerbated the financial burden on households, leading to widespread public dissatisfaction.

“The economic policies, including the subsidy removal, have left millions struggling to afford basic necessities,” Zikirullahi remarked, pointing out the disparity between government rhetoric and the reality faced by citizens.

Despite claims by the government that these policies would stimulate economic growth, the immediate effect has been a steep rise in the cost of living, with food, transportation, and housing prices becoming unaffordable for many.

Compounding this issue is the rising insecurity that has left communities vulnerable to violence and displacement, further eroding public confidence in the government’s ability to protect its citizens.

These issues have heightened the calls for greater political accountability and the strengthening of institutions like the EFCC and ICPC.

CHRICED’s statement also highlighted the role of anti-corruption agencies in addressing the widespread corruption that continues to plague Nigeria’s public sector.

The group referenced the 2023 Transparency International Corruption Perceptions Index, which placed Nigeria at a concerning 145th out of 180 countries. According to Zikirullahi, this ranking underscores the urgent need for effective governance and transparency.

The CHRICED director also took the opportunity to express gratitude to the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation for its continued support in bolstering anti-corruption efforts in Nigeria. Over the past five years, the foundation has played a vital role in strengthening these institutions and empowering civil society to advocate for good governance.