Contempt: Court Vacates Arrest Warrant Against EFCC Chairman

Justice Abubakar Hussaini Musa of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court has reversed a prior order instructing the Inspector-General of Police to apprehend the executive chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede. This directive was issued due to an alleged violation of the court’s ruling, which ordered EFCC operatives to vacate a property located at Number 6, Aso Drive, Abuja.

In a statement released by the EFCC spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, it was highlighted that the judge upheld the argument presented by the EFCC counsel, Rotimi Oyedepo. Oyedepo emphasized Olukoyede’s commitment to the rule of law and the EFCC’s dedication to enhanced professionalism and accountable conduct. He contended that Olukoyede, being a legal practitioner with a confirmed appointment as EFCC’s executive chairman, would not deliberately disobey a court order.

Oyedepo assured the court that all disputes between the involved parties in the suit would be resolved, requesting the removal of contempt proceedings against the EFCC’s boss. The defence counsel, Adeyemi Pitan, did not contest Oyedepo’s assertions.

In response, Justice Musa acknowledged his awareness that the EFCC chairman might not have been informed of the situation, expressing the need for Olukoyede’s presence. Consequently, he lifted the order and absolved Olukoyede of the contempt proceedings, scheduling the substantive suit for a hearing on February 7, 2024.

This development underscores the legal intricacies involved in the dispute over the property on Aso Drive and affirms the EFCC’s commitment to resolving the matter through legal procedures. The judge’s decision reflects a balanced approach, considering Olukoyede’s professional standing and the need for a fair resolution in the ongoing legal proceedings.

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