Lagos Governor Sanwo-Olu Sues EFCC Over Threats of Arrest, Prosecution

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has initiated legal action against the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to prevent what he claims are threats of arrest and prosecution following his tenure. The governor, represented by his attorney Darlington Ozurumba, filed a fundamental rights enforcement suit before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik at the Federal High Court in Abuja.

During the court proceedings on Tuesday, Ozurumba informed the judge that he had replaced an earlier originating summons with a new one. However, EFCC’s counsel, Hadiza Afegbua, stated she had not yet received the updated documents, and proof of service was absent from the court file. As a result, Justice Abdulmalik adjourned the case until November 11 for further mention.

In the originating summons, filed on June 6, Sanwo-Olu raised seven key issues and sought 11 specific reliefs. He argues that, under Section 37 of the 1999 Constitution, he has the right to private and family life both during and after his public service. He also claims entitlement to own and manage properties, including bank accounts, in accordance with Sections 43 and 44(1) of the Constitution.

Sanwo-Olu contends that any threat of investigation, arrest, or detention by the EFCC during his governorship is illegal and infringes on his constitutional rights to personal liberty and freedom of movement, as outlined in Sections 35(1) and (4) and 41(1).

In addition, the governor argues that ongoing harassment and threats from the EFCC are politically motivated and a misuse of executive power. He seeks a court order to prevent the EFCC from intimidating, arresting, or prosecuting him in relation to his time as governor. He also requests an injunction against the seizure of his assets, including his international passport and bank accounts.

Supporting his claims, a litigation secretary from Ozurumba’s firm alleged that the EFCC is attempting to coerce some of Sanwo-Olu’s aides and contractors into making false statements against him. She contends that these actions are part of a larger scheme to fabricate corruption allegations against the governor.

Sanwo-Olu was first sworn in as governor on May 29, 2019, and was re-elected for a second term on May 29, 2023.