The Federal High Court of Nigeria has designated 48 judges across its divisions to handle cases filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). This move, announced in a statement by Chief Judge Justice John T. Tsoho, aims to expedite the prosecution of financial crimes and corruption cases.
Judges in major cities, including Abuja, Lagos, and Port Harcourt, will oversee these cases. The decision follows public concerns over delayed trials and judicial interference in high-profile corruption cases involving politicians and government officials.
The Federal High Court of Nigeria has appointed 48 judges to exclusively handle cases brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in a bid to accelerate the prosecution of financial crimes, money laundering, and corruption.
In a press statement dated February 13, 2025, and signed by Chief Judge Justice John T. Tsoho, the judiciary announced the designation of specific judges across various divisions to tackle the backlog of corruption cases.
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“The following Judges are hereby designated to handle Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) cases in their respective Divisions,” the statement reads.
Judges Assigned to Major Divisions
The Abuja Division will be overseen by Justices I. E. Ekwo, J. O. Abdulmalik, J. K. Omotosho, Emeka Nwite, M. S. Liman, and H. J. Yilwa. In Lagos, Justices C. J. Aneke, Y. S. Bogoro, D. E. Osiagor, and O. A. Oluseyi have been designated for EFCC matters.
In the Port Harcourt Division, Justices P. M. Ayua and A. T. Mohammed will preside over corruption cases, while Justice I. L. Ojukwu will handle cases in Calabar.
Other notable assignments include:
- Asaba Division: Justices F. A. Olubanjo and O. A. Agbaje
- Kano Division: Justice S. M. Shuaibu
- Kaduna Division: Justice R. M. Aikawa
- Uyo Division: Justice C. S. Onah
- Enugu Division: Justices M. G. Umar and F. O. G. Ogunbanjo
- Owerri Division: Justices I. N. Oweibo and C. J. Wigwe-Oreh
- Abeokuta Division: Justice A. J. Adeyemi
Addressing Judicial Delays and Public Concern
This development comes in response to increasing public criticism over the prolonged duration of corruption trials, frequent adjournments, and allegations of judicial manipulation.
Despite securing notable convictions, the EFCC has faced challenges due to legal loopholes and lengthy court proceedings that allow high-profile defendants—such as former governors and government officials—to evade justice.
Justice Tsoho’s directive is seen as a strategic measure to curb delays and ensure timely resolution of cases, especially those involving politically exposed persons.
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Systemic Challenges in Corruption Trials
SaharaReporters has previously documented cases where influential figures exploit procedural technicalities to stall proceedings or secure favorable rulings. This has fueled concerns about the judiciary’s independence and the effectiveness of anti-corruption efforts.
Legal analysts argue that while the new assignments are a positive step, systemic reforms and consistent judicial accountability remain crucial to restoring public confidence in Nigeria’s legal system.
The EFCC’s pursuit of financial criminals has often been hindered by lengthy litigation processes, with some cases dragging on for years or being dismissed on technical grounds.
Justice Tsoho’s announcement signals a renewed commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s anti-corruption framework and ensuring that those implicated in financial crimes face swift and fair prosecution.