President Bola Tinubu has identified frivolous appeals, intimidation of judges, and judgments based on technicalities as major obstacles hindering Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts.
He emphasized that addressing these challenges is crucial for effective prosecution of corruption cases.
Speaking at the 6th Economic and Financial Crimes Commission/National Judicial Institute Capacity Building Workshop, Tinubu acknowledged improvements in corruption prosecution due to recent justice sector reforms. However, he stressed the need for collective action against corruption, describing it as a “cancer” denying Nigeria its full potential.
*Key Challenges*
– Frivolous applications and appeals delaying trials
– Intimidation of judges by counsel
– Judgments based on technicalities rather than facts
Tinubu urged the judiciary to enhance its capacity to handle emerging financial crimes, particularly those involving virtual assets and cryptocurrency fraud.
*Administration’s Commitment*
– Improved welfare and remuneration for judges
– Official accommodation for judicial officers
– Strategic investment of recovered proceeds in social programs
– Students Loan Fund and Consumer Credit Scheme to reduce corruption pressure
Chief Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun pledged the judiciary’s support and commitment to the anti-graft campaign. Senate President Godswill Akpabio advocated for periodic review of economic crime laws and a central database for law enforcement. Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu emphasized competence in the war against corruption.
The event was attended by notable figures, including the President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Monica Mensem, and EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede, who acknowledged challenges in investigating high-profile cases and thanked the judiciary for its support.
