EFCC Contemplates Next Move in Peter Odili’s N100 Billion Allegations
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) remains uncertain about its course of action regarding the alleged misappropriation of N100 billion by former Rivers State Governor, Dr. Peter Odili, between 1999 and 2007, Excel Magazine International has gathered.
Vanguard’s investigation reveals that despite media speculations of the EFCC preparing to charge Odili over the N100 billion case, the anti-graft agency has not initiated legal proceedings due to a perpetual injunction imposed by Justice Ibrahim Buba of the Federal High Court in March 2008.
A reliable source confirms that the EFCC has not overturned the injunction, preventing them from prosecuting the former governor.
The agency is contemplating two options: intensifying efforts to challenge the injunction at the Appeal Court, aiming to bring Odili and his officials to court; or abandoning the case if legal opinions suggest a slim chance of success.
Contrary to reports, the EFCC has not finalized plans to retry Odili.
The commission has expressed readiness to review all corruption cases involving former governors, including Odili’s, without confirming any specific actions.
Recalling events, in October 2008, the EFCC appealed the initial injunction at the Court of Appeal in Port Harcourt.
In 2010, A.B. Mahmoud, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, was engaged to pursue the appeal against the ‘perpetual injunction.’
However, the case, including Odili’s bid to be included as an interested party, was last heard on March 15, 2012, with no further developments reported by EFCC or Odili.
