The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has opposed Lagos Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s fundamental rights enforcement suit, labeling it as speculative.
Sanwo-Olu had filed the suit against the EFCC, alleging threats to arrest, detain, and prosecute him after his tenure as governor.
Sanwo-Olu’s originating summons, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/773/2024, raised seven questions and sought 11 reliefs. He claimed that the EFCC’s actions were instigated by his political adversaries, citing false and politically motivated allegations of corruption ¹. The governor sought declarations that his rights to private and family life, as well as his freedom of movement, were being violated.
In its counter affidavit, the EFCC denied threatening or intimidating Sanwo-Olu. Ufuoma Ezire, a Superintendent and Litigation Secretary, stated that the commission had not investigated the governor nor invited him for questioning ¹. Ezire argued that Sanwo-Olu’s claims were unfounded, untrue, and aimed at misleading the court.
*Key Points of EFCC’s Objection*
– _No Investigation or Invitation_: The EFCC claimed it had not investigated Sanwo-Olu nor invited him for questioning.
– _No Threats or Intimidation_: The commission denied threatening or intimidating the governor.
– _Speculative Suit_: The EFCC described Sanwo-Olu’s suit as speculative and misconceived.
– _Lack of Evidence_: The commission stated that there was no petition or intelligence gathered to warrant inviting or arresting the governor.
The case has been adjourned to November 11 for further mention, with Sanwo-Olu required to serve the EFCC. The EFCC’s objection highlights the ongoing tension between the governor and the anti-graft agency.
