EFCC Defends Powers to Prosecute Former Minister Agunloye in $6 Billion Mambilla Hydroelectric Power Plant Scandal

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has asserted its authority to prosecute former Minister of Power and Steel, Olu Agunloye, over an alleged $6 billion fraud concerning the Mambilla hydroelectric power plant.

The case, which is currently being heard by Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie of the FCT High Court in Abuja, has garnered significant attention as it highlights the commission’s commitment to combating corruption and financial crimes in Nigeria.

According to the charges, Agunloye is accused of committing several infractions related to the Mambilla power plant, including awarding a contract without proper budgetary provisions, approval, and cash backing.

The charges also allege that the former minister received suspicious payments from the Sunrise Power and Transmission Company Limited, the company awarded the contract.

Agunloye has pleaded not guilty to the charges against him and filed a preliminary motion on notice, arguing that the EFCC lacks the investigative and prosecutorial powers to prosecute him on the current charges.

However, the commission maintains that it possesses the necessary powers, citing judicial precedents and the law that donates such authority to the EFCC.

The case has drawn comparisons to the Nwobike vs FRN case, which dealt with similar issues of the EFCC’s powers.

However, the commission has clarified that the circumstances in the case involving Agunloye are different and that the law supports its position.

As the trial progresses, the outcome of this case will have significant implications for the future of the Mambilla hydroelectric power plant project and the fight against corruption in Nigeria.

The EFCC’s determination to prosecute the former minister demonstrates its commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that those who engage in corrupt practices are held accountable for their actions.