Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, Ilorin Branch, says it will strengthen ties with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, to ensure collective fight against corruption in the country.
The Chairman of the Branch, Sulyman Kosemani stated this when he led members of the NBA executives on a visit to the Ilorin Zonal Directorate of EFCC in Kwara state.
He commended the existing synergy between the EFCC and legal practitioners in the state, stressing that there is the need for deeper collaboration.
Kosemani urged the Commission to intensify its scrutiny of politically exposed persons (PEPs), particularly public office holders, to ensure accountability in the management of funds accruing to states, especially in the aftermath of the fuel subsidy removal.
The NBA chairman also encouraged the EFCC to maintain its focus strictly on economic and financial crimes while leaving civil matters to the appropriate courts.
He further called for increased involvement of members of the Bar in EFCC activities, noting that such collaboration would foster a seamless and productive relationship between both institutions.
For his part, the Zonal Director of the EFCC ,Daniel Isei said lawyers are indispensable allies in the nation’s anti-corruption efforts.
Isei, however, cautioned against undue interference in ongoing investigations , adding that lawyers should support the Commission with credible intelligence, particularly in high-profile cases.
He reminded legal practitioners of their duty as ministers in the temple of justice, advising them to provide sound counsel to their clients and refrain from filing frivolous applications to frustrate trials.
COV/ALI MUHAMMAD RABIU
