By Milcah Tanimu
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has called on the Federal High Court in Abuja to dismiss a fundamental rights lawsuit reportedly filed on behalf of Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. The lawsuit, which seeks to prevent EFCC’s arrest or prosecution of Sanwo-Olu after his tenure, was dismissed by the EFCC as “speculative” and unnecessary.
Despite the filing, the Lagos State Government and Attorney General Lawal Pedro have denied Sanwo-Olu’s involvement, clarifying that no lawyer was authorized to file the suit. Pedro stated that with nearly three years left in office, Sanwo-Olu enjoys immunity, making any lawsuit on this matter redundant.
The EFCC, in a counter-affidavit filed on October 31, denied any harassment or threats against Sanwo-Olu or his aides, emphasizing that there were no current investigations or allegations of misconduct warranting such a suit. The affidavit, sworn by Ufuoma Ezire, EFCC’s superintendent and litigation secretary, further noted that the EFCC typically follows a formal process for inviting individuals for interviews or interrogations.
The suit is adjourned until November 26, with the possibility of being withdrawn by Sanwo-Olu’s lawyer, Darlington Ozurumba, as further clarification is sought on the governor’s involvement in the filing.
