The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has issued a stern warning to the public, emphasizing that obstructing officers of the Commission from carrying out their lawful duties is a criminal offence.
In a statement by Dele Oyewale, Head of Media & Publicity at the EFCC, the commission cited Section 38(2)(a)(b) of the EFCC Establishment Act, which defines obstruction of EFCC officers as an offence punishable by law.
According to the Act, individuals found guilty of obstructing EFCC operatives risk facing a minimum jail term of five years.
The warning comes in response to a concerning trend where individuals and groups under investigation by the Commission have resorted to unlawful tactics, including the recruitment of thugs, to hinder EFCC operations.
Recall that on Wednesday, the governor of Kogi State, Ahmed Usman Ododo stormed the Abuja residence of ex-governor Yahaya Bello to prevent the EFCC from arresting him over allegations of financial irregularities.
"On several occasions, operatives of the Commission have had to exercise utmost restraint in the face of such provocation to avoid a breakdown of law and order. Regrettably, such disposition is being construed as a sign of weakness.
"The Commission, therefore, warns that it will henceforth not tolerate any attempt by any person or organisation to obstruct its operation as such will be met with appropriate punitive actions," the statement in part reads.
