In a recent report by The SUN, Hon. Kingsley Fanwo, the Commissioner for Information and Communications in Kogi State, addressed various pressing issues during his interview on Channels TV. Among these issues were the allegations of money laundering leveled against the immediate past governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), as well as the invasion of the former governor's residence.
When questioned about the EFCC's acquisition of a High Court order to arrest the former governor, Fanwo responded with a series of pointed remarks. He queried the EFCC's confidence in securing such an order, highlighting their premature occupation of the former governor's residence while awaiting a ruling from the Federal High Court.
In his words: "How were they sure they would be granted? They went ahead, stayed in his house, waiting for the order to be granted by the Federal High Court."
Fanwo emphasized, "Prior to this, a state High Court had issued a restraining injunction, accompanied by a substantive ruling in favor of the former governor. This injunction explicitly restrained the EFCC from harassing, persecuting, or arresting him, his family members, or any government officials who served under his administration."
He further elaborated on the significance of this court order, stating, "We have a valid and subsisting court order that mandates the EFCC to refrain from any form of harassment or intimidation against the former governor. The ongoing discourse should focus on the EFCC's compliance with this court order."
Fanwo criticized the EFCC's conduct, asserting, "It is unacceptable for an agency to flout legal directives and then seek constitutional justification for their actions. By disregarding the restraining order, the EFCC has exhibited contempt for the law, thereby undermining the very principles of justice they are mandated to uphold."
In conclusion, Fanwo emphasized the need for adherence to the rule of law, stating, "The EFCC must operate within the confines of the law and respect valid court orders. Their disregard for legal protocols is the crux of the current dispute, and they cannot be allowed to act with impunity."