“Legal Critique: EFCC’s Handling of Privileges and Media Trials”
Daniel Bwala, a lawyer and public affairs analyst, has raised serious concerns about the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) granting specific privileges to former Kogi State governor Yahaya Bello while denying similar treatment to the convicted popular crossdresser, Idris Okuneye (popularly known as Bobrisky). Bobrisky was recently sentenced for publicly abusing the Nigerian currency.
As the ex-spokesman for former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Bwala points out the alleged disregard for the rule of law within the EFCC. He specifically criticizes the recent press conference held by the commission’s chairman, Ola Olukayode, labeling it a “media trial.”
The EFCC had accused Yahaya Bello of misappropriating a substantial sum of N80 billion and other related offenses. During a media briefing, the EFCC boss vowed to resign if he failed to prosecute Bello, who was accused of evading arrest, detention, and prosecution.
Bwala highlights the disparity in treatment, emphasizing that Bello enjoys certain privileges without having to present his own case. He questions whether the commission is genuinely committed to prosecution or inadvertently providing an escape route for the accused.
In analyzing Olukayode’s statements, Bwala asserts that the trial process in Nigeria should not be conducted through media channels. Even in a trial by jury, media influence should not play a decisive role. Furthermore, Bello’s legal representation has received court orders and served him through counsel, adding complexity to the case.
This situation reflects a recurring issue in the EFCC’s approach to prosecution, where high-profile cases often become entangled in media narratives. Bwala’s critique underscores the need for a fair and transparent legal process, devoid of undue media influence.
