While we encourage the EFCC to continue its fight against corruption, it must do so within the ambit of the law and with respect for human dignity
By Moses Okorie
A Coalition of Civil Society Organisations in Nigeria, COCSON, representing over 200 civil society groups nationwide, has urged the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, to desist from media trial against former Accountant-General of the Federation Chukwunyere Nwabuoku,
Speaking on Tuesday at a press conference organised by the group in Abuja, its national spokesperson, Mr. Segun Okeowo, said EFCC must immediately desist from using media trials as a tool for public perception management, insisting that investigations should be carried out professionally and discreetly, while evidence should be tested only in courts of law.
Okeowo also called on the media to exercise responsible journalism by ensuring that reports do not portray suspects as criminals before verdicts are reached, advising that sensational headlines and leaks of investigative details should stop.
According to COCSON, the government and judicial system must strengthen due process, ensuring that cases are concluded swiftly and fairly to avoid prolonged public speculation and unnecessary media persecution.
“Chukwunyere is a man who has meritoriously served Nigeria in various capacities, and as such, he deserves to be treated with dignity. Accusations do not amount to convictions, and until a court establishes guilt, he, like every other suspect, remains innocent. This is a basic constitutional right that must not be violated.
“First and foremost, we commend the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for its continuous efforts in tackling corruption and financial crimes in Nigeria. The commission has played a pivotal role in investigating and bringing suspected financial offenders to book, which is a crucial step in maintaining transparency and accountability.
“However, we are deeply concerned about the increasing trend of media trials, where individuals under investigation are subjected to public ridicule and character assassination before they have had their day in court. This practice is not only unethical but also contradicts the fundamental principle of the Nigerian Constitution, which presumes every suspect innocent until proven guilty by a competent court of law.
“Publicly tarnishing the reputation of suspects before due legal processes are concluded has far-reaching consequences, including undermining fair trial rights, creating bias in public opinion, potentially damaging the careers and reputations of innocent individuals, and weakening confidence in the judicial system”, Okeowo warned
The Coalition described Chukwunyere as a man who has meritoriously served Nigeria in various capacities, and as such, he deserves to be treated with dignity, sayìng accusations do not amount to convictions, and until a court establishes guilt, he, like every other suspect, remains innocent. This is a basic constitutional right that must not be violated.
They said fight against corruption must not be tainted by procedural injustices as every Nigerian, regardless of position or past service, is entitled to due process.
“While we encourage the EFCC to continue its fight against corruption, it must do so within the ambit of the law and with respect for human dignity”, COCSON said.