According to Vanguard, Chief Mike Ozekhome, SAN, a prominent human rights lawyer, has clarified his position on the alleged non-arrest of former Governors Alhaji Abdul’aziz Abubakar Yari and Bello Mattawale of Zamfara State by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Reports had previously surfaced suggesting Ozekhome criticized the EFCC for not taking action against the former governors. However, he has strongly refuted these claims, stating that his comments were misrepresented.
During his clarification, Ozekhome emphasized the importance of adhering to legal processes, referencing a related incident involving another former governor, Yahaya Bello of Kogi State. Bello had obtained a court restraining order in February 2024, which legally prevents the EFCC from detaining him while the order remains in effect. Ozekhome pointed out the necessity of respecting such legal protections to maintain the rule of law.
Ozekhome’s remarks come amid ongoing debates about the role of the EFCC and its adherence to judicial directives in high-profile cases. He urged the public and the media to distinguish between personal biases and logical legal arguments, highlighting the potential consequences of ignoring court orders in the pursuit of law enforcement.
He said: “I know you hate Bello but calm down and separate emotions from logic. You cannot disobey a court order simply because you want to enforce the law.
“In February 2024, Yahaya Bello approached a high court in Kogi state and was granted a restraining order, you do not expect him submit himself to EFCC when the restraining order is still valid.