Prioritize substance in anti-corruption cases, Tinubu urges judiciary
By Kunle Sanni
President Bola Tinubu has called on Nigeria’s judiciary to avoid frivolous appeals and legal technicalities that hinder the swift prosecution of corruption cases.
The President made this call through Vice President Kashim Shettima during the opening of the 6th Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC)/National Judicial Institute (NJI) Capacity Building Workshop for Justices and Judges in Abuja.
In his remarks, President Tinubu emphasized the importance of focusing on the substance of corruption cases rather than allowing procedural delays to obstruct justice. He described corruption as a “cancer” plaguing the nation, hindering Nigeria from realizing its full potential.
“Frivolous applications and appeals, intimidation of judges, and judgments based on technicalities continue to impede the speedy adjudication of corruption cases,” Tinubu said, urging judicial officers to confront these challenges head-on. He encouraged them to remain patriotic and committed to the fight against corruption.
President Tinubu also noted that technological advancements, such as cryptocurrency fraud, have added complexity to financial crimes. He stressed the need for the judiciary to be adequately prepared to handle these emerging challenges.
He went on to highlight key government initiatives, including the Student Loan Fund and the Consumer Credit Scheme, aimed at reducing economic pressures that may lead some Nigerians toward corrupt practices.
He reassured judicial officers of his administration’s commitment to supporting the judiciary, referencing recent improvements in judicial remuneration and housing provisions.
Other prominent figures, including Chief Justice of Nigeria Kudirat Kekere-Ekun and Senate President Godswill Akpabio, echoed the President’s sentiments.
They emphasized the importance of continuous collaboration between the judiciary and anti-corruption agencies, as well as regular updates to financial crime laws to address the growing complexity of corruption in the country.
The workshop, organized by the EFCC and NJI, is part of the administration’s broader strategy to strengthen the nation’s anti-corruption fight by enhancing the capacity of judicial officers in handling economic and financial crimes.
