The EFCC Explains Why We Are Unable to Investigate Corruption Matters in Ten States.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has indicated that it is unable to pursue corruption cases in ten states due to legal constraints. This information was disclosed by the commission's chairman, Ola Olukoyede, during the 6th EFCC/National Judicial Institute (NJI) capacity-building workshop for judges and justices held on Monday in Abuja. Olukoyede noted that court orders are hindering the Commission's ability to investigate corruption in these ten states, although he did not specify which states are affected. He emphasized the necessity for collaboration between anti-corruption agencies and the judiciary in the ongoing battle against corruption. Furthermore, the EFCC chairman highlighted challenges such as frequent adjournments of high-profile cases and conflicting court orders that complicate the prosecution of corruption. He stated, "Despite the dedication and efforts of our judges in addressing corruption cases nationwide, and initiatives like practice directions and the designation of specific courts and judges for these matters, there remain critical issues that require immediate attention. "The prevalence of frequent adjournments in high-profile corruption cases due to frivolous applications, conflicting orders from courts of equal jurisdiction, excessive contempt orders directed at the commission's leadership, and an overreliance on technicalities in serious corruption cases, along with unwarranted injunctions preventing the commission from investigating graft, are among the numerous challenges facing the EFCC that warrant open discussions over the next two days. "The trend of suspects under criminal investigation seeking court injunctions to prevent the commission from inviting, investigating, questioning, or arresting them, including actions by certain state governments, has become increasingly common and concerning."