Following the legal battle by eighteen States Governors to seek the scrapping of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, two States Governors, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq of Kwara State, and Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State have distant themselves from the move.
The development came as the Supreme Court on Tuesday heard arguments from Kogi State and 18 other States challenging the constitutionality of EFCC.
The Kwara State Governor, Abdulrazaq stated his support for EFCC while delivering his goodwill message at the 2024 National Cybercrime Summit held in Abuja.
Speaking on the efforts of the anti-graft agency in combating financial crimes in the country, the Governor stated that he was impressed.
According to him, the efforts of the EFCC, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), and the National Orientation Agency (NOA) in educating young Nigerians on issues related to crime, drug abuse, and patriotism are encouraging.
He said, “I am impressed with what the EFCC, NDLEA, and National Orientation Agency are doing in the new media and our basic schools. To dissuade young people from engaging in crimes, drug abuse, and to promote patriotism.
“This effort should be elevated. So that we can achieve a national consensus on the behaviors that form the foundation of our cultural legacy as Nigerians. You have our full support in this endeavor.
“We also commend the EFCC for organizing this summit once again. I am confident that, after this gathering, we will be better informed. And be more motivated to improve the public’s perception of cybercrime.
“Once again, I congratulate the EFCC for initiating this important discussion. And I am certain the outcome will strengthen the national campaign against cybercrimes,” Abdulrazaq added.
The Zamfara State Governor, Lawal also distant himself from the lawsuit against the EFCC.
Fielding questions from journalists on the lawsuit, the Governor stated that he was hearing about the case for the first time.
Gov. Lawal, however, explained that his presence at the summit was to show support for the anti-corruption commission. The Governor also assured that the Zamfara State Government is prepared to assist the EFCC in its mission to benefit Nigeria.
He said, “Let me say this: I am hearing about this suit challenging the EFCC for the first time. And that’s the honest truth. I don’t know the details, so I cannot comment on it.
“But my attendance here is to show support for the Commission. Especially at a time when Nigeria is grappling with numerous challenges, particularly cybercrime.
“This summit is a great opportunity. And I believe it is a step in the right direction. Towards improving Nigeria’s image in the global community.
“We are ready to support the EFCC in any way. Including providing office accommodation and other resources to help them in their work for the progress of our country,” Governor Lawal said.
The Governor also confidently responded that he had nothing to fear about the EFCC. He maintained that his focus was on serving the people of Zamfara State.
“Why would I be afraid of the EFCC? We are here to serve. Leadership is about being accountable and transparent,” he stated.
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