Kano court grants order to protect anti-graft boss from investigation by EFCC, others
The Kano State High Court has issued an ex-parte order, restraining the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB), and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) from interfering in the affairs of the Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission (PCACC).
This order comes after both the EFCC and CCB wrote separate letters to the PCACC, intimating them about pending investigations into the anti-graft agency. The EFCC requested the presence of PCACC’s Director of Finance and Accounts for an interview, along with the submission of some documents, while the CCB sought relevant documents to aid their investigation.
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Responding swiftly, the Kano State government, through its Attorney General, filed a suit in the state high court, seeking a declaration that any actions taken by the PCACC and its staff, under the supervision or on behalf of the Attorney-General, cannot be subjected to investigation without his involvement. The suit also sought a declaration that the EFCC’s powers do not grant authority to investigate alleged infractions committed at the state level, where there are relevant penal provisions.
Justice Farouk Lawan Adamu, presiding over the case, granted the ex-parte motion and ordered an interim injunction that restrains the defendants – EFCC, CCB, and ICPC – from meddling, delving into, or taking any step related to the functions, duties, and affairs of the plaintiffs, including the PCACC and its Chairman, Barrister Muhuyi Magaji Rimingado.
Furthermore, the judge also directed an accelerated hearing, abridging the time for the defendants to file and serve their respective court processes. The matter is scheduled for further hearing of the originating motion on September 25.
This court order underscores the importance of protecting the autonomy and functioning of the Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission. The ruling ensures that investigations into the agency are conducted with proper oversight and in accordance with the law, under the supervision of the Attorney-General.
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