EFCC Calls For Formation Of Targeted Court To Speed Up Oil Theft Cases

EFCC Calls For Formation Of Targeted Court To Speed Up Oil Theft Cases

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has proposed establishing a Special Court to focus on prosecuting suspected crude oil thieves and tackling other crimes within the oil and gas sector. This proposal was presented during an investigative hearing by the House of Representatives’ Special Committee, which is examining crude oil theft and related issues…… CONTINUE READING 

According to Naija News, the appeal was made on Wednesday as Michael Uzokwe, Chief of Staff to the EFCC Chairman, described the challenges the Commission faces in achieving timely prosecutions due to delays in the current court system. Uzokwe noted that despite numerous cases filed, convictions are rare, with many cases still pending or recently initiated. These delays are especially problematic in the Niger Delta, where oil-related crimes are prevalent.

Abdulkareem Chukkol, EFCC Director of Investigation, echoed these concerns, highlighting the high volume of oil-related complaints managed by the Commission’s offices in the Niger Delta. He reported that in 2019, over 400 cases were brought to court, with more than 200 cases filed in 2022. Chukkol also mentioned that some cases are forwarded to other agencies for further action.

When questioned by Committee member Rep. Gambo Leko about the withdrawal of cases, EFCC representatives clarified that the Commission rarely withdraws cases and usually appeals any unfavorable rulings or stays of execution.

Regarding the use of recovered funds, EFCC officials pledged to provide detailed information to the committee. They referenced President Tinubu’s recent statement indicating that around ₦100 billion had been released from EFCC recoveries.

Rep. Sada Soli Jibiya, who briefly substituted for Committee Chairman Alhassan Ado Doguwa, underscored the need for transparency in handling recovered funds, which are reflected in the national budget.

Earlier, Doguwa emphasized that the investigation aims to unify stakeholders in the fight against oil theft, a major issue for Nigeria’s oil sector. He noted that addressing these problems could improve production and revenue, vital for the country’s governance. Doguwa also mentioned that while the government has the political will to address these issues, years of neglect in the oil and gas sector have exacerbated the challenges. The investigation seeks to identify effective solutions to reduce the impact of oil theft and related crimes.

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