Go after corrupt elite, not small offenders, Judge tasks anti-graft agencies
The Presiding Judge at the Court of Appeal, Sokoto Division, Justice Muhammad Lawal Shuaibu, has advised anti-corruption agencies to shift their focus from low-level offenders, such as internet fraudsters, to more significant figures involved in corruption.
Speaking at the North West Zonal Attorney General’s Anti-Corruption Forum (AGAF) on Monday, Justice Shuaibu stressed the importance of tackling high-profile corruption for the betterment of society. The event was organized by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), with support from the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC), the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IDEA), and funded by the European Union (EU).
“In my time at the NJI, I criticized the EFCC Chairman, though we disagreed. Since 2007, when I stopped handling corruption trials, I can’t recall a significant case. Now the focus is on yahoo boys. I implore all of you to target the bigger fish. Only then will we have a stable society,” said Justice Shuaibu.
The judge expressed concern over the prevalence of corrupt individuals in positions of power. Recalling a troubling case, he noted how a former convict had regained a prominent role in government, describing it as a glaring example of systemic failure. Justice Shuaibu urged stronger collaboration between Federal and State agencies to combat such issues.
He also took aim at judicial practices that hinder anti-corruption efforts. “People with immunity can still be invited and investigated,” he stated, criticizing the issuance of ex parte orders shielding politically exposed individuals from scrutiny.
Justice Dije Aboki, the Chief Judge of Kano State, supported Justice Shuaibu’s remarks. She urged anti-corruption agencies to pursue cases at all levels, irrespective of the status or influence of the accused.
In his address, ICPC Chairman, Dr. Musa Aliyu (SAN), assured participants that the commission remains committed to pursuing high-profile corruption cases. However, he emphasized the need to modernize the justice system through technology to expedite corruption trials.
Aliyu also advocated for the swift passage of the Whistleblower Act, describing it as a critical tool for exposing corrupt practices and protecting whistleblowers.
Speaking on behalf of the European Union and RoLAC, Mr. Emmanuel Uche emphasized the need for closer collaboration with state Attorneys General to bolster anti-corruption efforts across Nigeria.
The forum underscored the growing demand for systemic reforms to hold powerful actors accountable and strengthen Nigeria’s fight against corruption.
