The Supreme Court has reserved its judgment on a case filed by 16 states challenging the constitutionality of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission and two other agencies.
The court will announce its decision at a later date. During the hearing on Tuesday, Imo, Bauchi, and Osun states joined the case as co-plaintiffs, supporting the claims that the EFCC was not properly established.
Meanwhile, Anambra, Ebonyi, and Adamawa states withdrew from the case. The court acknowledged their withdrawal and struck out their suits.
The Attorney-General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), represented the federal government as the defendant. He asked the court to accept a legal document filed by the defense on Tuesday morning. Justice Uwani Abba-Aji granted the request, allowing the EFCC’s defense to proceed.
This case has attracted attention as the states question the legal basis for the EFCC’s establishment. The anti-corruption agency, however, has defended its work, with some officials previously stating that scrapping the EFCC would harm Nigeria’s fight against corruption.
