CSOs ask supreme court to dismiss suit challenging EFCC Establishment Act

A coalition of civil society organisations (CSOs) has asked the supreme court to dismiss the lawsuit filed by governors challenging the constitutionality of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) Establishment Act.

The coalition, made up of over 40 CSOs focused on anti-corruption and good governance, made the appeal during a press conference in Abuja on Wednesday.

The group include Connected Development (CODE), Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), Good Governance Team (GGT), State of the Union (SOTU), and Women in Media Initiative (WIM).

The CSOs said the suit undermines the nation’s anti-corruption efforts and sends a dangerous message.

The coalition described the case as “frivolous” and as an affront to the rule of law and the constitution which empowers the national assembly to make laws necessary for maintaining public order and combating corruption.

They called on the governors to withdraw the lawsuit and collaborate with anti-corruption agencies to ensure transparency and accountability in their states.

“The governors involved should discontinue this ill-advised legal action and instead work collaboratively with all Anti-Corruption Agencies (ACAs) to ensure transparency and accountability in managing public resources in their respective states,” the group said.

“The federal government should reaffirm its commitment to strengthening the CCB, EFCC, ICPC, and other anti-corruption bodies by providing them with the necessary resources, guaranteeing their independence, and protecting them to fulfil their mandate without fear or favour.”

The coalition emphasised the need for Nigerians and civil society to remain vigilant, ensuring public officials are held accountable.

They stressed the importance of supporting efforts to recover stolen assets from public officials, their associates, and business partners.

The coalition also emphasised the need for full implementation of the supreme court’s ruling on financial autonomy for LGAs.

They called on the federal government, the national assembly, and anti-corruption agencies to enforce sanctions against any governors who defy the court’s verdict.

The CSOs urged the NFIU to continue monitoring local government finances to ensure compliance with guidelines.