Highlighting the trial of nightlife mogul Cubana Chief Priest for naira abuse, human rights activist and lawyer Maduabuchi Idam criticized the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for allegedly resorting to tribal politics.
Idam labeled the trial of Cubana Chief Priest as a superficial gesture, suggesting that EFCC’s motive may be an attempt to appease the Southwest following the conviction of Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky, for naira abuse.
Initially apprehended by EFCC and presented before a Lagos Federal High Court on a three-count charge related to naira abuse, Cubana Chief Priest’s case has drawn scrutiny from Idam.
Expressing disappointment, Idam recommended that EFCC divert its focus to investigating the allegations of budget padding made by suspended Bauchi Central Senator Abdul Ningi, instead of engaging in the prosecution of Cubana Chief Priest.
In a released statement, the Abuja-based rights advocate berated the proceedings involving Cubana Chief Priest, referring to it as a futile exercise.
He remarked, “It is intriguing to witness EFCC appearing to adhere to a quota system in its approach to suspects. The prosecution of Chief Priest appears to be a symbolic gesture aimed at balancing regional or ethnic considerations, possibly in response to any unrest stemming from the unnecessary trial of Bobrisky.”
Idam added, “Otherwise, the commission ought to be focusing on delving into Senator Ningi’s claims of a diversion amounting to over 3 trillion Naira by Akpabio and his associates within the National Assembly, rather than chasing after trivial matters.”
He further commented, “It seems that EFCC is either facing a lack of significant cases or is merely seeking attention on its platform.”
“The legal pursuit of Chief Priest for naira abuse is essentially a waste of time. EFCC should shift its attention towards more substantial concerns,” Idam concluded.