Chancellor of the International Society for Social Justice and Human Rights, Dr. Omenazu Jackson, has criticised the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), saying the anti-graft agency is becoming weaker as high-profile corruption cases remain unresolved.
Speaking in an interview on ARISE NEWS on Saturday, Jackson said the EFCC had failed to conclude investigations and prosecutions involving major corruption allegations despite the passage of several years.
“You see, generally, EFCC is getting weaker and weaker every day in terms of investigation and prosecution. They chase more of yahoo boys who scam people for $2 million, $3 million. That’s the highest number that is in prison, $5 million, $200. But those who scam the nation, billions, are working free.”
He maintained that the agency should ensure corruption suspects are prosecuted, leaving the courts to determine their innocence or guilt. “ I am not saying they are guilty. What I’m saying is, prosecute them. Let Nigerians know that they have been prosecuted. And let the court decide whether they are free or not.”
Jackson also questioned why some investigations had remained unresolved years after the allegations first emerged. “The pertinent question is, why has this not been prosecuted?”
Referring to the agency’s own public statements, he said the EFCC had announced findings in some cases but had yet to complete the judicial process.
“It is the EFCC that told the nation that this is their finding. It is not an allegation. I am quoting EFCC.”
Jackson argued that lengthy investigations should not prevent prosecutions from moving forward. “Three years is enough for you to gather evidence.”
He added that the commission had a responsibility to explain the delays in concluding major corruption cases. “EFCC has a question to answer, and we Nigerians have a duty bound to demand questions answered from them.”
Jackson warned that prolonged delays in prosecuting major corruption cases could weaken public confidence in Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts.
“A society where there are two laws governing the same society, you are looking for something strange.”
Erizia Rubyjeana
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