Despite Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s attempts to dissociate himself from the lawsuit against the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the case is still ongoing at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
On Monday, the EFCC requested that the court dismiss Sanwo-Olu’s bid for legal protection in his fundamental rights case. In a counter affidavit, the EFCC argued that the governor’s claims were speculative. Sanwo-Olu reportedly filed the lawsuit through his lawyer, Darlington Ozurumba, on June 6, 2024, naming the EFCC as the sole defendant and alleging that the commission intends to arrest, detain, and prosecute him after his term ends.
Sanwo-Olu’s originating summons, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/773/2024 and dated June 6, 2024, outlines seven legal questions and seeks 11 forms of relief. Among them, he demands a court declaration affirming his right to privacy and family life under the constitution. He also argues that the EFCC’s alleged threats of investigation, arrest, and detention violate other constitutional provisions, especially while he holds office.
The governor claims the EFCC’s actions are politically motivated and aimed at tarnishing his reputation. Consequently, he seeks a court order to prevent the EFCC from harassing, detaining, or prosecuting him over matters related to his tenure.
However, the EFCC denied Sanwo-Olu’s allegations, stating in a response dated October 30 and filed on October 31 that it has neither threatened, contacted, nor violated the governor’s rights. The EFCC asserted that the allegations are unfounded and misleading, and that there is no legal basis for the suit. The commission requested the court to dismiss the case.
During a hearing on October 29, Sanwo-Olu’s counsel informed the court that he had withdrawn the initial summons and filed a new one, which he confirmed had been served to the EFCC. But the EFCC counsel said she had not received the new documents, and the judge rescheduled the hearing for November 26. It is reported that Sanwo-Olu’s lawyer may seek to withdraw the case at the next hearing.
Madukwe B. Nwabuisi is an accomplished journalist renown for his fearless reporting style and extensive expertise in the field. He is an investigative journalist, who has established himself as a kamikaze reporter.
