Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has taken legal steps against the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The governor claims that the EFCC is planning to arrest, detain, and prosecute him once his term as governor ends. This legal action has drawn public interest, raising questions about the powers of the EFCC over current and former officials.
Sanwo-Olu, through his lawyer, Darlington Ozurumba, filed a suit in the Federal High Court in Abuja. The case, numbered FHC/ABJ/CS/773/2024, is before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik. In his filing, Sanwo-Olu raised seven questions and sought 11 different legal protections, aiming to guard his rights after leaving office.
Sanwo-Olu’s main argument is his right to private and family life, protected by Section 37 of Nigeria's 1999 Constitution. According to him, this right should shield him from harassment or interference by the EFCC both during and after his term as governor.
He also highlighted his right to own property under Sections 43 and 44(1) of the Constitution. He argued that, as a citizen, he has the right to own and manage his assets, including bank accounts, which should be respected even after he leaves office.
In his suit, he claims the EFCC’s alleged plan to arrest him while he is still in office goes against Sections 35(1) & (4) and 41(1) of the Constitution. He argues that these sections protect his right to personal freedom and free movement.
The governor states that any attempt by the EFCC to investigate, detain, or arrest him while he is in office is illegal and unconstitutional. He believes such actions would be a violation of his basic rights, which he insists should remain protected both before and after his time in office.
As the case progresses, Nigerians are watching closely to see if the court will support Sanwo-Olu’s claims. The governor’s actions underline ongoing tensions between officials and anti-corruption agencies in Nigeria on issues of privacy, personal freedom, and property rights.