A Federal High Court in Abuja has dismissed a lawsuit seeking the removal of Ola Olukoyede as the chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The court ruled that the applicant, Victor Opatola, lacked the legal right to institute the case.
Opatola, an Abuja-based lawyer, had challenged Olukoyede’s appointment, arguing that he did not meet the required years of service for the position. He claimed that Olukoyede’s appointment was invalid, as he did not have the necessary experience to head the anti-graft agency.
However, the respondents, including President Bola Tinubu and Olukoyede, prayed the court to dismiss the suit for lacking merit. Olukoyede’s lawyer, Olumide Fusika, argued that the plaintiff lacked the legal authority to institute the suit and that Olukoyede was eminently qualified for the position.
Fusika pointed out that Olukoyede had served as secretary of the commission, a grade Level 17 position, which is higher than the rank of an Assistant Commissioner of Police, a grade Level 14 position. He argued that Olukoyede’s experience and qualifications made him suitable for the position of EFCC chairman.
The court agreed with the respondents and dismissed the suit, affirming Olukoyede’s appointment as EFCC chairman. The judgment was delivered by Justice Obiora Egwuatu, who ruled that the applicant lacked locus standi (legal right) to institute the case.
This development is a significant victory for Olukoyede and the EFCC, as it solidifies his position as the head of the anti-graft agency. The EFCC has been at the forefront of the fight against corruption in Nigeria, and Olukoyede’s leadership has been instrumental in the commission’s successes.
The court’s decision is also a testament to the independence of the judiciary and its ability to uphold the rule of law. By dismissing the suit, the court has demonstrated its commitment to ensuring that only legitimate and lawful challenges are entertained.
