Justice Muhammad Lawal Shuaibu, a Presiding Judge at the Court of Appeal, Sokoto Division, on Monday urged anti-corruption agents to focus on larger figures involved in corrupt practices, rather than targeting “yahoo boys.”
Justice Shuaibu made this call during the opening of the North West Zonal Attorney General’s Anti-Corruption Forum (AGAF), organized by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), with support from the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC), the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IDEA), and funding from the European Union (EU).
He emphasized that targeting high-profile individuals was crucial for achieving a stable society. “At the NJI, I criticized the EFCC Chairman, though we disagreed. Since 2007, when I stopped handling corruption trials, I can’t recall a significant case. Now the focus is on yahoo boys. I implore all of you to target the bigger fish. Only then will we have a stable society,” he said.
Justice Shuaibu shared his frustration over the continuing presence of corrupt individuals in positions of power, citing an example of a serving governor who had previously been incarcerated under his watch. He expressed disbelief at how such individuals returned to power and urged stronger collaboration between state and federal agencies.
He also criticized judges who issue ex parte orders protecting individuals with immunity, preventing anti-corruption agents from carrying out their duties. He stated, “People with immunity can still be invited and investigated.”
Kano State Chief Judge, Justice Dije Aboki, echoed Shuaibu’s sentiments, urging anti-corruption agents to expose corruption at all levels, regardless of the status or influence of the individuals involved.
ICPC Chairman, Dr. Musa Aliyu SAN, assured that the commission was not afraid to pursue high-profile targets, but stressed that improving the justice system through technology would expedite the process.
Aliyu also called for the swift passage of the Whistleblower Act, which he believes would significantly aid in the fight against corruption by protecting whistleblowers and exposing corrupt actors.
On behalf of the European Union (EU) and RoLAC, Mr. Emmanuel Uche highlighted the importance of expanding collaboration with state Attorneys General to strengthen the anti-corruption efforts in Nigeria.
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It takes a stong minded judge to say this. He did not say don’t arrest yahoo boys but he is saying don’t divert your attention from the big saboteurs of the economy and concentrate on small fries.