A recent lawsuit filed by 16 governors seeking to declare the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) illegal has sparked widespread outrage and concern among Nigerians. High Chief Peter Ameh Ojonugwa, the Chairman of For Democratic Accountability and Electoral Reforms (CODER), in a statement issued on Friday, viewed this move as a brazen attempt to undermine Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts and make the country a haven for unchecked corrupt practices.

The EFCC, established in 2003, has been at the forefront of Nigeria’s fight against corruption, recovering billions of naira in stolen funds, prosecuting high-profile corruption cases, and enhancing Nigeria’s international image.

According to Chief Ameh, its efforts have significantly contributed to shaping Nigeria’s image internationally, demonstrating the country’s commitment to fighting corruption.

However, Olisa Agbakoba, SAN, has questioned the EFCC’s constitutional legitimacy in two separate letters dated October 14, addressed to the Senate and House of Representatives of Nigeria.

But Ameh said that his objectivity is compromised due to his interest in the ongoing corruption case against the former Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Adoza Bello, and charges brought against him by the EFCC, raising questions about Agbakoba’s motivations.

Ameh then accused the 16 governors behind the lawsuit have been accused of sponsoring this campaign to discredit the EFCC and evade accountability for alleged corruption. He said their actions reek of desperation, aiming to escape prosecution for corruption-related offenses, weaken Nigeria’s anti-corruption framework, and undermine the rule of law.

He called on “well-meaning Nigerians must resist this attempt to undermine the EFCC’s vital work. The fight against corruption demands collective support.”

CODER urged the National Assembly to “reject Agbakoba’s claims, the judiciary to uphold the EFCC’s constitutional legitimacy, and Nigerians to demand accountability from their leaders.”

He said that the “EFCC remains crucial in Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts. Nigerians must stand against attempts to undermine its work and ensure the rule of law prevails.”

CODER noted that the EFCC has been investigating several former governors, with allegations of misappropriating N2.187 trillion over 25 years, saying that the agency’s efforts to hold public officials accountable for corruption must be supported.

CODER concluded that the EFCC’s legitimacy and effectiveness in fighting corruption must be upheld. Nigerians must demand accountability from their leaders and resist attempts to undermine the country’s anti-corruption efforts.