Yahaya Bello: Lawyers Petition UN, UK Over EFCC Chairman’s Alleged Rights Violations, Threaten Visa Ban

A group of legal practitioners has taken the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Olanipekun Olukoyede, to task over allegations of disregarding court orders and infringing upon the constitutional rights of Nigerian citizens.

During a briefing held in Abuja on Friday, Emmanuel Agada, speaking on behalf of the legal team, announced their intention to escalate the matter to international bodies such as the United Nations and the United Kingdom. The group accuses Olukoyede of unjustly targeting individuals, including former Governor Yahaya Bello, and threatens to impose a visa ban should these actions persist.

Agada emphasized their commitment to ensuring an independent judiciary, free from political influence, and pledged to pursue avenues that guarantee justice for all Nigerians. The group’s petition to international entities underscores their determination to hold the EFCC chairman accountable for any abuses of power.

The lawyers expressed concern that unchecked actions by the EFCC could tarnish the reputation of the current administration, urging President Tinubu to intervene and uphold the rule of law. They also called for a halt to international funding and support to the EFCC until the commission demonstrates a commitment to constitutional principles.

Their appeal to international bodies, including the United Nations High Commission for Human Rights and the European Union, underscores the gravity of the situation and highlights the need for global scrutiny of human rights violations in Nigeria. The lawyers believe that external intervention can help strengthen national institutions and safeguard the rights and dignity of Nigerian citizens.

In conclusion, the legal practitioners emphasized the importance of upholding the integrity of the judiciary and fostering stronger institutions immune to political interference.