COURTESY VISIT BY THE ECONOMIC AND FINANCIAL CRIMES COMMISSION (EFCC) TO THE ACTING CHIEF JUDGE OF IMO STATE
The Acting Chief Judge of Imo State today received a delegation from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) lead by the zonal director on a courtesy visit at the Judiciary Headquarters.
During the courtesy visit to the Acting Chief Judge of Imo State, the Zonal Director of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Hassa Saidu, FDC, informed the Court of the establishment of a new Zonal Office in Awka. The office, he noted, has been created to serve both Anambra and Imo States, with the aim of improving operational efficiency and enhancing timely access to justice.
The Zonal Director further disclosed that the Commission has recently expanded its operational presence with the opening of 18 additional offices across the Federation. According to him, this strategic expansion is intended to reduce operational costs, bring enforcement activities closer to the people, and ensure that matters relating to economic and financial crimes are addressed without undue delay.
Mr. Saidu attributed the Commission’s recent successes to effective collaboration with the Judiciary, emphasizing that the synergy between both institutions has significantly strengthened the fight against corruption and financial crimes.
He respectfully requested the designation of one or more Magistrates to facilitate the timely signing of warrants, particularly in urgent matters requiring real-time intervention. He also sought the designation of a Judge and a specific court for the expedited hearing of criminal cases to ensure faster adjudication.
The Zonal Director expressed concern over the prevalence of public sector corruption and cybercrime within the region, noting that such offences negatively impact economic growth and investor confidence.
In her response, the Acting Chief Judge acknowledged the requests but noted that Judges of the High Court are presently burdened with heavy caseloads. She, however, assured the delegation that the Judiciary remains open to addressing genuine procedural bottlenecks when formally brought to her attention. She further stated that the Commission is at liberty to approach any Judge in accordance with established legal procedures.
Her Lordship emphasized the importance of diligence and professionalism in prosecution. She expressed concern over instances where prosecuting counsel failed to appear in court to handle their matters and urged the Commission to ensure proper representation at all times. She also advised that thorough investigation and due diligence be conducted before arraigning suspects, in order to avoid avoidable setbacks in court proceedings.
The Acting Chief Judge assured the delegation that she would consider the request relating to the assignment of a Magistrate for the purpose of signing warrants.
In appreciation of the Judiciary’s continued cooperation, the Zonal Director conferred on the Acting Chief Judge an honorary recognition as an EFCC Anti-Corruption Advocate.
