The Supreme Court of Nigeria has dismissed a lawsuit filed by 13 states challenging the constitutionality of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The lawsuit, initially brought by the Kogi State Government and later joined by 18 other states, claimed that the EFCC was established based on a United Nations convention recommendation, rather than an explicit provision in the Nigerian Constitution.
However, the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, argued that the EFCC’s existence is grounded in Section 15(5) of the 1999 Constitution, which mandates the state to abolish corrupt practices and abuse of power.
The seven-man panel of justices, led by Justice Uwani-Abba-Aji, unanimously agreed with Fagbemi’s argument, dismissing the suit for lack of merit.
This ruling is a significant victory for the EFCC, which has been at the forefront of Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts.
The commission has announced efforts to prosecute high-profile cases, including the alleged ₦110 billion fraud involving former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello.
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