Jigawa State has formally withdrawn from the Supreme Court case challenging the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s (EFCC) constitutional authority to investigate state funds.
The state’s Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Bello Fanini, announced the withdrawal during a press briefing on Saturday, confirming the state’s exit from the high-profile case marked SC/CV/178/2023.
“On October 24, 2024, a notice of withdrawal was filed in Abuja, signed by myself, to officially remove Jigawa State from the case pending at the Supreme Court,” Fanini said. “The notice has been served to the Chief Registrar, the Attorney-General of the Federation, and other plaintiff states.”
The lawsuit, spearheaded by Kogi State and joined by 14 other states, questions the legal authority of federal agencies, including the EFCC and the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), to investigate and prosecute state governments over their financial management practices.
Explaining the state’s decision, Fanini emphasized that the withdrawal aligns with Jigawa’s current priorities.
“We believe it is in the best interest of Jigawa State to withdraw from this case at this time, allowing us to focus our efforts on cases that directly impact the state’s governance and legal landscape,” he stated.
The Attorney-General was careful to note that Jigawa’s withdrawal should not be interpreted as diminishing the legitimacy of the ongoing legal challenge.
“The issues raised in this case are important, and we respect the legal positions of the other states,” Fanini said. “However, our focus is to ensure we are using our legal resources efficiently for the benefit of Jigawa’s citizens.”
At the heart of the legal dispute is the contention that the EFCC’s Establishment Act conflicts with Nigeria’s Constitution. The plaintiff states argue that the anti-corruption body’s authority over state finances is unconstitutional without specific provisions being followed, including obtaining approval from state Houses of Assembly.
