Human Rights Lawyer Femi Falana Backs EFCC and ICPC, Says They’re Legally Established.
Femi Falana, a renowned human rights lawyer, has publicly supported the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), emphasizing their legitimate establishment ¹. He stressed that rather than questioning their legality, efforts should focus on ensuring their autonomy from government control.
Falana argued that both organizations were created in accordance with Section 15, Sub-Section 5 of the Nigerian Constitution. This stance contrasts with Dr. Olisa Agbakoba, former Nigerian Bar Association President, who has repeatedly labeled the EFCC as unlawful.
According to Falana, the Supreme Court has consistently upheld the legitimacy of the EFCC and ICPC as crime-fighting agencies independent of federal government control. He noted that state governments, such as Kano and Oyo, have established their own anti-graft agencies to collaborate with the EFCC and ICPC in combating corruption.
Falana emphasized the ideological nature of the anti-corruption battle, highlighting the need to protect the rights of the poor. He criticized the recent arrest of 22 youths for honoring EndSARS protest victims and the pending treason charges against 76 Nigerians protesting economic conditions.
Key Points:
• Legitimacy of EFCC and ICPC: Falana supports their establishment as lawful and necessary.
• Autonomy: He advocates for measures to ensure their independence from government control.
• State Anti-Graft Agencies: Falana encourages state governments to establish their own agencies to complement EFCC and ICPC efforts.
• Protection of the Poor: He stresses the importance of safeguarding the rights of marginalized communities in the anti-corruption fight.
