Court Denies Motion To Remove EFCC Chairman Olukoyede

Court Denies Motion To Remove EFCC Chairman Olukoyede

In a recent ruling, the Federal High Court in Abuja has dismissed a lawsuit challenging the appointment of Mr. Ola Olukoyede as the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The suit, filed by Mr. Victor Opatola, was dismissed on the grounds that Opatola lacked the legal standing to bring the case forward.

Justice Obiora Egwuatu delivered the judgment, stating that Opatola did not have the required locus standi to challenge Olukoyede’s appointment. Olukoyede, represented by Olumide Fusika, SAN, argued that he met the necessary qualifications for the position, having served as the Secretary of the EFCC, a Grade Level 17 position, which is higher than an Assistant Commissioner of Police.

Opatola’s suit had contested the validity of Olukoyede’s appointment, citing concerns over his years of service not meeting statutory requirements for the EFCC chairman’s office. The respondents, including the President of Nigeria and others, had urged the court to dismiss the suit, asserting its lack of merit.

The court’s decision followed deliberation on whether Olukoyede’s appointment adhered to the provisions of the EFCC Act 2004, particularly regarding required years of experience and rank qualifications. The dismissal affirms Olukoyede’s position as EFCC Chairman, upholding the legality of his appointment.