The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has refuted claims of bribery involving one of its prosecutors in the Malabu OPL 245 fraud case, which resulted in the dismissal of charges against former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Bello Adoke, and others by a Federal Capital Territory High Court.
In a statement, the EFCC dismissed the reports as false, asserting that there is no truth to the allegations that a bribe was offered to one of its prosecutors. The agency emphasized its commitment to upholding integrity and transparency in the pursuit of justice, particularly in high-profile cases such as the Malabu OPL 245 fraud case.
While acknowledging the dismissal of charges by the court in Abuja, the EFCC announced that it has initiated a review of developments surrounding the case. This review process includes evaluating the possibility of lodging an appeal and considering changes in legal representation, citing dissatisfaction with the handling of the case by Offem Uket.
Addressing the allegations of bribery, the EFCC reiterated that its decision to review or appeal the case is not linked to speculations circulating in certain media outlets regarding compromised integrity. The agency emphasized that it has not accused any party involved in the case of misconduct and has refrained from making conclusive statements regarding ongoing investigations.
The EFCC denounced the accusations of compromise as baseless insinuations generated by mischief-makers, urging the public to await further developments regarding its response to the court’s decision.
Following the Abuja High Court’s ruling, which upheld the defendants’ no-case submission, certain online news platforms insinuated that the EFCC had accused its prosecutor of compromise involving prominent lawyers associated with the case.
In response to these allegations, the EFCC reiterated its commitment to impartiality and professionalism, emphasizing its dedication to pursuing justice without succumbing to undue influence or external pressures.