“Breaking: Governor Sanwo-Olu Takes Legal Action Against EFCC Over Post-Tenure Arrest Threat”

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has initiated legal action against the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), claiming threats of arrest, detention, and prosecution once his tenure concludes. The lawsuit, a fundamental rights enforcement action, was filed in the Federal High Court in Abuja by his lawyer, Darlington Ozurumba.

During a recent court session, Ozurumba announced the withdrawal of an initial originating summons, stating it has been replaced with a revised filing. Although the EFCC’s counsel, Hadiza Afegbua, claimed she had not received the new documents, Justice Joyce Abdulmalik adjourned the case until November 11 for further mention.

In his original summons, filed on June 6, Sanwo-Olu raised concerns over potential actions by the EFCC after leaving office. He seeks declarations affirming his rights under the 1999 Constitution, including the right to private and family life and the ownership of property, including bank accounts.

Sanwo-Olu argues that the EFCC’s threats of investigation and arrest during his term are illegal and violate his fundamental rights. He claims that these threats stem from politically motivated allegations and asserts they represent a misuse of executive power.

The governor is requesting an order to prevent the EFCC from harassing or prosecuting him in connection with his tenure. He also seeks to restrain the agency from seizing his properties, passport, or bank accounts.

In supporting documents, a litigation secretary alleged that the EFCC is planning to arrest aides and family members of the governor based on false allegations of fund diversion. She claimed that EFCC officials are pressuring some aides to make incriminating statements against him and are attempting to intimidate contractors associated with state projects.

Overall, Sanwo-Olu’s lawsuit underscores concerns about political motivations behind the EFCC’s actions and aims to protect his rights as he approaches the end of his governorship.