Kehinde Fajobi
Justice Muhammad Lawal Shuaibu of the Court of Appeal, Sokoto Division, has urged anti-corruption agencies to focus on high-profile offenders rather than concentrating on internet fraudsters, popularly known as “yahoo boys.”
Speaking on Monday at the opening of the North West Zonal Attorney General’s Anti-Corruption Forum (AGAF) in Sokoto, Justice Shuaibu called for a shift in strategy to address corruption at its roots.
The event was organised by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) with support from the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC), the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IDEA), and the European Union.
Shuaibu highlighted the need to target influential figures to ensure societal stability.
“At the NJI, I criticised the EFCC Chairman, though we disagreed. Since 2007, when I stopped handling corruption trials, I can’t recall a significant case.
“Now the focus is on yahoo boys. I implore all of you to target the bigger fish. Only then will we have a stable society,” he stated.
He expressed frustration over corrupt individuals returning to positions of power, citing a serving governor who had previously been jailed under his watch.
“How do such people find their way back to leadership roles?” he questioned, urging stronger collaboration between state and federal agencies.
Justice Shuaibu also criticised judges issuing ex parte orders that shield individuals with immunity, hampering anti-corruption investigations.
He noted, “People with immunity can still be invited and investigated.”
Justice Dije Aboki, Chief Judge of Kano State, reinforced Shuaibu’s message, urging anti-graft agencies to expose corruption regardless of the status or influence of those involved.
ICPC Chairman Dr. Musa Aliyu SAN affirmed the agency’s commitment to targeting high-profile offenders.
He emphasised the importance of adopting technology to enhance the justice system and expedite corruption cases.
Aliyu also called for the quick passage of the Whistleblower Act, stating, “This legislation is vital for protecting whistleblowers and unearthing corrupt practices.”
Mr. Emmanuel Uche, representing the European Union and RoLAC, stressed the importance of collaboration with state Attorneys General to strengthen Nigeria’s anti-corruption fight.