EFCC To Pay N20m For Violating FHR

One Mr Ubong Williams, has been freed by a Federal High Court sitting in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, from the claws of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.

The court which issued an order of perpetual injuction restrained the EFCC from further harassment, intimidation or arrest of Mr Williams, while slamming a fine of N20m on the Commission, as compensation for the violation of his fundamental human rights.

The court also issued an order pending the determination of a suit marked PHC/PH/FHR/240/2020.

NaijaNews understands the Williams is being investigated for fraud in connection with the construction the Ikom Imam flyover bridge, the Ibiaku Ikot-Ikot Udom Eshiet Road, Etinan Circus-Ekpene Ukpa Ndoneyo-Awa Road dualisation and the Ekom Imam-Etinan Circus Road dualisation in Akwa Ibom State.

The court judge, Justice Oshoma ruled that that continuos invasion of the private residence, arrest and detention of William by the EFCC and his incessant invitation to the office of the anti-graft agency were in violation of his fundamental human rights guaranteed under sections 34 and 35 of the Nigerian Constitution.

The court further directed the EFCC to tender an apology on a national newspaper to the applicant for violating his fundamental rights.

While addressing newsmen after the court session, counsel for the applicant, Andem Andem, said the court reaffirmed the fact that it existed to deliver justice and check the excesses of law enforcement agencies.