Why we can’t arrest Oshiomhole — EFCC

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has challenged the jurisdiction of the Federal High Court in Abuja to compel it to arrest and prosecute Chairman of All Progressives Congress, APC, Adams Oshiomhole, over allegation that he diverted public funds to his personal use.

The anti-graft agency, which admitted that it was in receipt of petitions accusing Oshiomhole, however said it was not under any obligation to report or give account of its investigations to any individual or under a timeline within which to carry out its functions.

EFCC, therefore, urged the high court to dismiss the suit seeking to invoke an order of mandamus to compel it to initiate criminal proceedings against the embattled APC chairman.

The suit, which was lodged before the court by Edo State-based cleric and activist, Bishop Osadolor Ochei, is urging the court to declare that EFCC has a statutory duty to investigate different petitions that contained allegations of financial recklessness against Oshiomhole.

Specifically, the applicant alleged that Oshiomhole, who was sued as the second respondent, while in office as Edo State governor, acquired properties in United States of America, South Africa and Dubai worth billions of U.S. dollars and far in excess of his legitimate income.

He alleged before the court that the ex-governor built a sprawling mansion worth more than N10 billion in his home town, Iyamho, while in office.

-Vanguard