In a landmark decision, the Supreme Court has dismissed a lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of the laws establishing the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), and Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU).
The suit, initially filed by the Attorney General of Kogi State, later saw other states joining the legal battle, with the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) as the sole defendant. The plaintiffs argued that the establishment of the anti-graft agencies infringed on states’ constitutional autonomy.
Delivering the verdict, the apex court affirmed the validity of the agencies, emphasizing their critical role in combating corruption and financial crimes. Legal experts have hailed the ruling as a major victory for Nigeria’s fight against corruption, with many asserting that it strengthens the nation’s anti-corruption framework.
This decision solidifies the operations of the EFCC, ICPC, and NFIU as pillars of transparency and accountability in Nigeria’s governance structure.