In a recent development, Justice Abubakar Hussaini Musa of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, High Court, on January 25, 2024, overturned a previous order instructing the Inspector-General of Police to arrest the Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede. This initial order was issued due to allegations that Olukoyede disobeyed a court ruling instructing EFCC operatives to vacate a property at Number 6, Aso Drive, Abuja.
The judge supported the argument presented by EFCC Counsel, Rotimi Oyedepo, SAN, stating that Olukoyede, being an officer of the law committed to upholding the rule of law, would not willingly ignore or disobey a court order. The decision suggests a belief in Olukoyede’s dedication to moving the EFCC toward enhanced professionalism and accountable conduct.
Oyedepo further told the court that, “I am here to assure my Lord that Mr. Ola Olukoyede who is now the Executive Chairman of the EFCC, whose appointment was confirmed by the Senate of Federal Republic of Nigeria on the 18 October, 2023 and being a legal practitioner of many years at the bar may not knowingly disobey the order of the court”. He prayed the court to vacate the contempt proceedings against the EFCC’s boss, assuring that all the issues involved between the parties in the suit would be resolved. Defence counsel, Adeyemi Pitan, did not object to the submissions of Oyedepo.
Responding, Justice Musa stated that “I knew that the EFCC Chairman was not aware of this, that is why I want the Chairman to come”. He, thereafter, vacated the order and purged Olukoyede of the contempt proceedings.
He also adjourned the matter till February 7, 2024 for hearing of the substantive suit.
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