Don’t Side With Any Political Party – British Envoy Tells EFCC

Paul Arkwright, British Higher Commissioner to Nigeria has admonished the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) not to be partisan or takes sides with any political party as the 2019 general elections approaches.

He stated also that both the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the EFCC should collaborated to prevent any form of vote buying.

Punch reports that the UK envoy made this known at the corporate headquarter of the EFCC in Abuja on Wednesday.

“INEC and EFCC should be there to preserve the integrity of the political process, including taking forward investigations without any prejudice on one side or the other, following the evidence and taking action where it is justified.” He said.

While commending the EFCC for its achievement in tackling corruption, Arkeright assured that the British government would support the commission to remain independent both technically and otherwise.

“We are pleased to see how the EFCC operates, and we are assuring you of the endless support of the British Government in the fight against corruption.

“The UK and Nigeria have evolved and made progress in the fight against corruption, and the EFCC’s achievements have been impressive,” he added.

Naija News gathered that in his response, Ibrahim Magu, the chairman of the Commission appreciated the British government for its support stated that the commission would not rest until corruption is nipped in the bud.

“I assure you that there is no political interference in what we do. We will continue to work with stakeholders like INEC who we have an agreement with to ensure that there is no interference to ensure free and fair elections in Nigeria and we will stop people using money to buy votes.”

“We do not invite anybody here if he is not found to be involved in one offence or crime and that is why when you come here, it takes a lot of efforts to be off the chain. Whatever case that comes to the EFCC is investigated to a logical conclusion. We take the case to court which gives the final decision.” Magu said.

According to him, the EFCC operates international best practices, and “does diligent preliminary investigation.”