A Federal High Court in Abuja has dismissed a suit filed by a businessman, Paul Afagase, seeking to stop the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission from investigating him over an alleged ₦350 million contract transaction.
In a statement made available to journalists on Monday, and signed by the ICPC spokesperson, Okor Odey, said that while delivering judgment, Justice J. K. Omotosho ruled that the anti-corruption agency has the statutory authority to investigate allegations of corruption and cannot be restrained from carrying out its duties.
Afagase had approached the court seeking a perpetual injunction to stop the ICPC from inviting or investigating him in connection with what he described as a civil dispute involving himself, Richard Okozi and Rokozi Investment Limited.
He argued that the matter was purely contractual and that the ICPC should not be used as a debt recovery agency.
The plaintiff also told the court that he had earlier been invited and cleared of any wrongdoing by the Nigeria Police Force and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.
Afagase further alleged that the ICPC’s invitation amounted to intimidation, threats of arrest and a violation of his fundamental human rights. He also demanded ₦500 million in damages.
However, Justice Omotosho dismissed the claims, stating that the court would not prevent a law enforcement agency from carrying out investigations where allegations of criminal conduct had been raised.
“The court will not serve as a shield for individuals seeking to evade lawful investigation,” the judge held.
He added that the ICPC is empowered by law to investigate petitions alleging corruption, especially where public institutions and officials may be involved
