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Dantani: Selective EFCC Investigations Threaten Rule of Law, Democracy

Published

3 months ago

August 6, 2026

By Hassan Agboola

A human rights lawyer and advocate for the rule of law, Hamza N. Dantani, Esq., has warned that selective investigations by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) pose a serious threat to the rule of law, constitutional democracy and public confidence in Nigeria’s anti-corruption institutions.

Dantani said the EFCC was established to investigate and prosecute economic and financial crimes without fear or favour, stressing that the Commission could only achieve its statutory mandate by acting impartially, fairly and strictly in accordance with the law.
“As a human rights lawyer and advocate for the rule of law, I have consistently maintained that no individual, institution or government should be above the law. Equally, no person or institution should become a victim of selective investigation, political persecution or abuse of statutory powers under the guise of fighting corruption,” he said.
According to him, justice must not only be done but must also be seen to be done.
Commenting on the EFCC’s decision to place a Post No Debit (PND) restriction on the bank accounts of the Osun State Government, Dantani said the development had raised serious constitutional, legal and institutional concerns, particularly because of its timing ahead of the state’s local government and general electoral activities.
He said that regardless of the allegations under investigation, every action taken by a law enforcement agency must conform to the Constitution, relevant statutes and binding judicial precedents.
“The timing, manner and circumstances surrounding the restriction have generated widespread public concern and created the unfortunate perception that the EFCC may be acting selectively or pursuing political objectives rather than administering justice impartially,” he said.
According to him, such perceptions, whether justified or not, undermine public confidence in the Commission and weaken the credibility of Nigeria’s anti-corruption framework.
Dantani argued that Nigerian appellate courts had consistently held that neither the EFCC nor financial institutions possessed unrestricted powers to freeze or restrict the operation of bank accounts without first obtaining an order from a court of competent jurisdiction.
He cited the decision of the Court of Appeal in NPG Properties & Construction Works Ltd v. Zenith Bank Plc (2023) 15 NWLR (Pt. 1908), where the court held that a Post No Debit order placed without compliance with statutory provisions amounted to an unwarranted restriction on the account holder’s interest in the funds.
He also referred to G.T.B. Plc v. Adedamola (2019) 5 NWLR (Pt. 1664) 30, where the Court of Appeal held that before freezing a customer’s account or placing any restraint on it, a bank must first be satisfied that there is a valid court order.
According to Dantani, these decisions demonstrate that obtaining a court order is not a procedural technicality but a constitutional safeguard against arbitrary executive action and abuse of power.
He said that even where the EFCC considered it necessary to seek an interim freezing order, such an application must be made before a court of competent jurisdiction, supported by credible evidence and determined judicially.
“The courts serve as an important constitutional check on investigative agencies, ensuring that the fundamental rights of individuals, corporations and governments are protected during criminal investigations,” he said.
Dantani maintained that the rule of law demands equality before the law, noting that every government, political party, public office holder and private citizen must be subject to the same legal standards.
He, however, expressed concern over what he described as the growing public perception that the EFCC appeared more willing to investigate opposition-controlled states and political actors than individuals or governments associated with the ruling party.
“Whether that perception is accurate or not, it is dangerous because institutions derive legitimacy not merely from the powers granted to them by law but from the confidence reposed in them by the people,” he said.
He added that if similar allegations existed in states controlled by the ruling party without attracting similar investigative measures, legitimate questions would arise regarding consistency, equality and institutional neutrality.
According to him, anti-corruption enforcement must never create the impression that political affiliation determines who is investigated and who enjoys immunity.
Dantani further argued that the fight against corruption must never become an instrument for settling political scores or influencing electoral outcomes.
“Selective justice is no justice at all. An anti-corruption agency must remain independent of political interests and resist every temptation to appear as an extension of any administration or political party,” he said.
On the EFCC’s recent statement defending the restriction placed on the Osun State Government’s accounts, Dantani said the Commission failed to address the central legal issue.
“Rather than explaining whether it first obtained a valid order of a competent court authorising the restriction, the statement focused largely on the underlying allegations. That approach misses the constitutional question,” he said.
He maintained that the issue was not whether the EFCC had the statutory power to investigate alleged financial crimes but whether those powers were exercised strictly in accordance with the law.
“In a constitutional democracy, the end never justifies the means. Every governmental action must derive its legitimacy from compliance with due process,” he said.
Dantani added that no agency of government, regardless of its intentions, was permitted to disregard judicial pronouncements or statutory safeguards, stressing that the Constitution remains supreme over all public institutions.
He urged the EFCC to protect its credibility by ensuring that its actions were always lawful, impartial and free from political influence.
“The fight against corruption is too important to be weakened by perceptions of bias, inconsistency or abuse of power. Nigerians deserve an anti-corruption agency that investigates every allegation of corruption irrespective of political affiliation, ethnicity, religion or social status.
“The EFCC should demonstrate, both in words and in conduct, that there are no sacred cows. The law must apply equally to opposition parties, ruling parties, state governments, federal agencies and every public official.
“The strength of our democracy lies not in the power of institutions to punish but in their willingness to obey the law while exercising that power. Justice cannot be selective. The rule of law cannot be partisan. Equality before the law remains the bedrock of every democratic society,” he said.

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Kwara celebrates Fela’s legacy with retrospective exhibition

Published

13 hours ago

October 26, 2026

Our Reporter

Stephen Olufemi Oni, Ilorin

The Kwara State Government has celebrated the life and enduring influence of Afrobeat legend, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, with a retrospective exhibition aimed at preserving African cultural heritage and inspiring younger generations.

The exhibition, titled Fela Anikulapo-Kuti: A Retrospective, was opened by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq at the Institute of Contemporary African Art and Film in Ilorin on Monday.

The Governor said the establishment of the institute reflected his administration’s belief that development should extend beyond physical infrastructure to include spaces that promote creativity, knowledge and economic opportunities.

“When we established the Institute of Contemporary African Art & Film, our vision was clear: development must go beyond roads, bridges and buildings to create spaces for creativity, knowledge and opportunity,” AbdulRazaq said.

According to him, cultural infrastructure plays an important role in connecting people to their history, broadening their imagination and encouraging critical thinking.

“Physical infrastructure connects places; cultural infrastructure connects people to their history, expands their imagination and challenges their thinking,” the Governor said.

AbdulRazaq said the institute was established to preserve African stories, nurture talents and showcase the continent’s artists and thinkers to the world,
describing the decision to open the institution with an exhibition dedicated to Fela as significant, given the musician’s contribution to African music, social commentary and cultural expression.

“Fela was more than a musician. Through his music and artistic expression, he challenged conventions and confronted society with questions about power, freedom, identity and justice,” he added.

The Governor added that the late musician’s life demonstrated the capacity of artistic expression to influence public discourse and inspire social change.

The exhibition, curated by June Creative Art Advisory, led by its founder, Mrs Seun Alli, featured photography, archival materials, film, graphic works and other artistic expressions exploring Fela’s life, times and enduring influence.

AbdulRazaq commended the firm for bringing its curatorial expertise and creative vision to the project, while describing the exhibition as an opportunity for different categories of visitors to engage with the musician’s legacy.

He said the exhibition would provide students with learning opportunities beyond the classroom, inspire artists, support researchers and encourage young people to explore the creative industry.

“For students, this is a classroom beyond the classroom; for artists, inspiration; for researchers, an opportunity for deeper inquiry; and for young people, a reminder that creativity offers both self-expression and economic opportunity,” he said.

The Governor clarified that the state government was not claiming ownership of Fela’s story but was providing a platform for younger generations to encounter and learn from his legacy, adding that the state government is optimistic that the institute would promote cultural education, encourage creative enterprise, attract visitors and strengthen Kwara State’s position in Nigeria’s cultural and creative landscape.

According to him, the institution’s success would be measured by the talents it nurtured, the ideas it inspired and the opportunities it created.

“Governments change, but institutions should endure,” the Governor said, expressing the hope that the exhibition would mark the beginning of sustained cultural engagement at the institute.

“May this exhibition begin sustained cultural engagement at ICAAF and inspire our young people to create, question, discover and contribute to society,” he said.

AbdulRazaq added that the initiative reflected his administration’s commitment to building a state where cultural heritage, innovation and economic opportunities complemented one another.

In her address, the Commissioner for Communications, Hon. Bolanle Olukoju, said: “Today’s exhibition offers us an opportunity to revisit the life and works of Fela
Anikulapo-Kuti and appreciate how his music, ideas and artistic expression continue to influence generations.

“For the Ministry of Communications, this occasion speaks to an important part of our
mandate: promoting the stories, talents and creative expressions that shape our identity as a people.”

The Commissioner particularly noted that under Governor AbdulRazaq’s leadership, the State is creating opportunities for young people through investments in sectors such as film, fashion and technology.

She added: “Projects including
the Sugar Film Factory, the Garment Factory and the Ilorin Innovation Hub reflect the administration’s commitment to developing talent and supporting enterprise.

“The Institute of Contemporary African Art & Film, formerly the Ilorin Visual Arts Centre, adds an important dimension to this effort. It provides a platform for artistic expression, cultural learning and creative collaboration.

“We want young Kwarans who are passionate about painting, photography, filmmaking, fashion and design to see ICAAF as a place where they can explore their interests, learn from others and showcase their talents.

“We also encourage students to engage with art and history beyond the classroom. Fela’s story is a fitting subject for this exhibition. It demonstrates how creativity
can go beyond entertainment to shape cultural identity and influence public conversations. There is much for our young people to learn from his artistic journey and enduring impact.

“It might also interest you that kwara state was also part of Fela’s creative showcase during his lifetime.”

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2027: Ilorin West LG Boss Leads APC Mega Rally In Ubandawaki

Published

13 hours ago

October 26, 2026

Our Reporter

•••Says Ward stands with APC

Stephen Olufemi Oni, Ilorin

The Executive Chairman of the Ilorin West Local Government, Mallam Shehu AbdulRahman Babatunde Ladan, has led an All Progressives Congress (APC) mega rally in Ubandawaki Ward, reaffirming the commitment of party members and supporters to the APC ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The rally attracted party leaders, grassroots mobilisers, youths, women, and other stakeholders who gathered to demonstrate their support for the party.

Addressing the gathering, Chairman Ladan declared that Ubandawaki Ward remains committed to the APC and its political leadership, expressing support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, and the APC governorship candidate, Rt. Hon. Engr. Yakubu Danladi-Salihu (SYD), alongside other party candidates for the 2027 general elections.

The Chairman emphasised the importance of unity, peaceful political engagement, and sustained grassroots mobilisation in strengthening the party’s structure ahead of the forthcoming elections, urging party faithful to remain united, engage constructively with residents, and work collectively towards the party’s political objectives.

Ladan also acknowledged the importance of Ubandawaki Ward in the political landscape of Ilorin West, encouraging party leaders and supporters to maintain cordial relationships, promote inclusive participation, and sustain engagement with the electorate. He stressed that a united party structure would help strengthen internal cooperation and effective grassroots coordination.

The mega rally renewed calls for unity, loyalty, and peaceful political participation among APC members and supporters, underscoring commitment by participants to mobilising support for the party’s candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections, while promoting peace, development, and responsible democratic engagement across Ilorin West Local Government Area.

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KW-IRS Staff Threaten Strike Over Alleged Poor Remuneration

Published

6 days ago

October 21, 2026

Our Reporter

Mgt Accuses Union Of Dishing Out False Staff Remuneration Scale

Stephen Olufemi Oni, Ilorin

The staff of the Kwara State Internal Revenue Service (KWIRS) have lamented poor welfare conditions, rising living costs and stagnant salaries they have been subjected to, despite their contributions to the state’s revenue generation.

In a statement issued by the KWIRS chapter of the Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria (ASCSN), the workers lamented that their sacrifice and professionalism, which have helped to place Kwara State among the more self-reliant states in the country, have not been matched with corresponding improvement in their welfare.

The workers questioned the disparity between their contributions to the state’s revenue and their welfare, saying many of them are battling financial hardship.

“We block leakages. We are posted to hospitals and other MDAs to secure government revenue. We work under pressure day and night but we continue to struggle to meet basic needs due to poor salaries.”

The association further expressed concern that personnel costs had remained unchanged for years while other expenditure heads had continued to increase.

It also cited a salary negotiation agreement dated October 11, 2022, which reportedly stated that the adjustment would be implemented “as soon as it can be accommodated in the budget.”

According to the workers, nearly four years after the agreement, there had been no implementation or clear indication of when the adjustment would take effect, despite the rising cost of living.

The staff said expenses on school fees, house rent, transportation and food had increased significantly while their salaries remained unchanged. “We smile outside but the majority of us are bleeding inside. We cannot continue to generate wealth for the state while we wallow in abject poverty,” they declared.

Urging their colleagues to remain united and resolute in pursuing improved welfare, the association said the workers should not expect better conditions without collectively standing up for their interests.

It called on members to remain calm, vigilant and prayerful as a 14-day period beginning October 15, 2026, counts down, without specifying further details in the statement about the expected action at its conclusion.

Reacting to the KW-IRS staff allegations, the Management, while
reaffirm its commitment to professionalism, political neutrality and its statutory mandate, expressed dismay over public speculation on staff remuneration and attempts to politicise unverified internal administrative communications.

“Management is concerned by attempts to exploit unverified internal administrative communications for political purposes, create unnecessary tension and distract the Service from its responsibilities. KWIRS will not be distracted from its mandate by such narratives,” said the Management.

It added: “The isolated salary figures being circulated on social media do not represent the full remuneration structure or total emoluments of KWIRS staff. Staff compensation extends beyond regular monthly salaries and includes the following benefits, in accordance with applicable policies and approved arrangements:

“Annual and Performance-Related Bonuses: Annual, festive, and situational bonuses linked to revenue performance milestones and staff performance and situational economic palliatives are paid periodically to staff members

“Annual Leave Allowance: A separate annual payment in addition to regular monthly remuneration.
Staff Welfare and Operational Support: Structured measures designed to support staff welfare and professional development throughout their careers.

“Accordingly, assessing staff remuneration solely on selectively circulated salary figures presents an incomplete picture of the Service’s compensation and welfare structure.

“Management remains committed to staff welfare, motivation and professional development. The Service will continue to strengthen policies and operational processes that support staff well-being and performance, within government-approved resource allocations and applicable administrative frameworks. The Service remains one of the Government Institutions with the most recruitment requests and this is a testament of Management’s commitment to staff welfare.

“KWIRS urges members of the public, taxpayers and other stakeholders to disregard unverified and misleading narratives, verify information before sharing it, and rely on official Service communications for accurate information about its operations and staff policies.

“All stakeholders are encouraged to refrain from politicising internal administrative matters or spreading claims capable of undermining institutional harmony and public confidence.

“KWIRS remains focused on its statutory responsibilities and committed to mobilising revenue for the economic growth and sustainable development of Kwara State.”