The Acting Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Ibrahim Magu, has been queried by the Presidency over alleged underhanded plan prosecution of Chairman of the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT), Danladi Umar.
In the query signed by the Solicitor General of the Federation, Mr. Dayo Apata, Magu was asked to explain the reasons behind the re-filing of corruption charges against Umar after he had earlier been absolved of corruption charges by the EFCC.
The reply is expected to reach the office of the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, on Tuesday.
The query with reference No DPP/ADV: 368/15 is titled “FRN VS Danladi Umar (CR/109/18) request for Briefing.’’
The query reads in part: “The attention of the AGF and Minister of Justice was drawn to news report that the EFCC has filed corruption charges against Justice Danladi Umar, before the FCT High Court.
“I am directed by the minister to seek clarification from you as to whether the charges were filed on your instruction or directive and if in the affirmative, what is the compelling basis for doing so.
“This clarification becomes imperative in view of some background facts,’’ which he said included a March 5, 2015 report that claimed that the allegation of corruption against Umar was a “mere suspicion.’’
He added that the report also pointed out that the allegations were not enough to prosecute Umar.
“The commission’s position in paragraph 2(a) was also maintained and sustained by the Honourable Attorney General of the Federation while appearing before the House of Representatives’ Investigative Committee sometimes in 2015.
“In view of the foregoing, the Honourable Attorney General of the Federation requests for your prompt briefing as to the existence of new facts which are contrary to the position in your attached investigation report.
“Kindly accord this letter top priority while your prompt response within 48 hours from the receipt of same is required in the circumstances,’’ the query reads further.