In an interview with Arise TV, Jesutega Onokpasa, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Head of Tinubu Media Support in the 2023 presidential campaign, discussed the ongoing faceoff between former Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), shedding light on various aspects of the situation. He emphasized Bello's purported commitment to fighting corruption despite the allegations leveled against him.
Onokpasa underscored the importance of upholding court orders, regardless of their origin, suggesting that even orders from customary courts should be obeyed. He reiterated the principle that "nobody is above the law," including high-ranking officials like the Attorney General of the Federation and the Inspector General of Police. He expressed concern over the perceived defiance of court orders by the EFCC chairman and highlighted the need for adherence to legal procedures.
Regarding the potential involvement of the military, Onokpasa questioned the basis for such intervention, emphasizing the importance of respecting due process and legal frameworks. He raised doubts about the legitimacy of any military involvement in the matter, suggesting that it would be unwarranted and contrary to established legal principles. Overall, his remarks underscored the significance of adherence to the rule of law and due process in addressing allegations of corruption and legal disputes.
He said: There was even a variation to the order. Go to appeal, and seek leave of the Court of Appeal to prosecute the gentle man. Even if the court order has come from a customary court, it should be obeyed. Nobody is above the law. The motto of EFCC is “Nobody is Above the Law” starting with the EFCC, not even the Attorney General of the Federation, the Inspector General of Police (IGP), is above the law. Who is above the law? Not even somebody with immunity is above the law. The immunity is there to aid you to execute the law. No one is above the law, not an agency. The EFCC chairman who can only jail cross dressers is there thumbing his nose at our courts. My learned friend, Kemi Pinheiro (SAN) is saying that he would send the army. After who? On what basis?