Why High-Profile Corruption Cases Take Time To Reach The Courts, Explains EFCC

  The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has explained why investigations and prosecutions involving high-profile corruption cases often take longer to reach the courts, insisting that delays do not mean inaction or compromise EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, said cases involving politically exposed persons and senior public officials are usually complex, requiring painstaking investigations, forensic accounting, and extensive evidence gathering before charges can be filed. He stated that rushing such cases to court without thorough preparation could lead to weak prosecutions and possible acquittals. Speaking during a televised interview, Olukoyede noted that unlike internet fraud and other straightforward offences that can be quickly investigated and prosecuted, high-profile corruption cases often involve multiple transactions, shell companies, cross-border financial flows, and numerous witnesses, all of which demand time and precision. He explained that the EFCC prefers to approach the courts only when it is fully ready, adding that the commission’s strategy is to secure convictions based on strong and admissible evidence rather than pursue hurried trials that may collapse under legal scrutiny. The EFCC chairman also pointed out that delays are sometimes compounded by the judicial process itself, as defendants in high-profile cases often file several preliminary objections, jurisdictional challenges, and interlocutory appeals that slow down proceedings once cases are in court. Addressing public concerns over alleged political bias, Olukoyede dismissed claims that the commission targets individuals based on party affiliation. He stressed that the EFCC investigates and prosecutes cases purely on the basis of evidence, regardless of the political status of those involved. Using ongoing cases involving former top government officials as examples, the EFCC chairman said many matters are already before the courts, while others are at advanced stages of investigation. He maintained that the commission has fulfilled and continues to fulfil its mandate to combat corruption within the bounds of the law. Olukoyede called for patience from Nigerians, noting that effective anti-corruption efforts require cooperation among investigative agencies, prosecutors, and the judiciary. He also renewed calls for judicial reforms to reduce delays and ensure corruption cases are concluded more swiftly. According to the EFCC, strengthening the justice system and ensuring diligent investigations remain critical to winning the fight against corruption and restoring public confidence in the rule of law.