By
Kamaldeen Mustapha
When it comes to fighting corruption, an effective and efficient anti-graft agency is essential. The aim of such an agency is to ensure that justice is served and corrupt individuals are held accountable for their actions.
But what happens when justice becomes selective, and the agency is perceived to protect the interest of certain actors? This is a critical issue that we must address if we are serious about eradicating corruption from our society.
It is no secret that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has been accused of selective justice, where some corrupt actors are left untouched while others are aggressively prosecuted. This has led to a loss of public confidence in their ability to serve the interest of justice. This is particularly worrying because corruption is one of the leading causes of poverty and underdevelopment in Nigerian countries.
The case of former Governor Bello Matawalle, who has been accused of mismanaging public funds and being linked to the infamous arms deal scandal, is a clear example of selective justice in Nigeria. Despite overwhelming evidence against him, the anti-graft agency has refused to investigate him, and he now holds a ministerial position in the administration of President Tinubu. This is a clear indication that justice is not being applied equally in Nigeria.
Similarly, the allegations of fraud and bribery in dollars against the former Governor of Kano State, Abdullahi Ganduje, are also a case of selective justice. Despite overwhelming evidence against him, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has refused to prosecute him, while pursuing cases against other individuals.
This selective approach to justice undermines the rule of law and erodes public confidence in the justice system.
It is important for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission to uphold its mandate of fighting corruption and applying justice equally to all citizens regardless of their status or political affiliation.
Selective justice undermines the principles of fairness and equality in Nigeria’s justice system. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission must remain impartial and unbiased, and uphold the rule of law to create an equal and just society. Justice must be applied equally to all citizens regardless of their political connections or economic status. The government must demonstrate its commitment to fighting corruption by ensuring that everyone faces the full weight of the law when they break it and that justice is seen to be done for all.
KAMALDEEN MUSTAPHA IS CHAIRMAN, TRANSPARENCY AND GOOD GOVERNANCE FORUM, SOKOTO
