Legal practitioner Daniel Bwala has criticized the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for the allegations against former Kogi state governor Yahaya Bello.
Bwala, a former media aide to Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, Atiku Abubakar, condemned the “trial by media” approach by the agency.
The lawyer who was reacting to the recent press briefing by the EFCC chairman, Olanipekun Olukoyede, accused the commission’s boss of conducting public discussions akin to a courtroom trial, where media outlets act as judge and jury.
Speaking on Arise TV’s morning show today, Bwala stated that the agency’s boss of conducting public discussions resembling a courtroom trial, with media outlets effectively acting as judge and jury.
He expressed concern over the implications of such an approach, suggesting that it could undermine the integrity of the legal process and potentially prejudice the case against Bello.
Bwala highlighted several critical issues with the EFCC’s approach, including what he perceived as selective treatment and breaches of procedural protocols.
He questioned the necessity of holding a press conference to discuss the substance of the charges against Bello, mainly when the matter was already before the courts.
Bwala also criticized the agency’s apparent reluctance to adhere to court orders, noting conflicting directives regarding Bello’s arrest and prosecution.
Moreover, Bwala accused the EFCC of using the media to build a narrative against Bello instead of pursuing criminal trials through the proper legal channels.
He called for reforms within the anti-corruption commission, emphasizing the importance of transparency, fairness, and adherence to due process in all investigations and prosecutions.
Bwala reiterated Bello’s right to a fair trial and urged the EFCC to respect the rule of law by complying with its provisions.
