Why ex-governor Obiano’s EFCC prosecution is faulty – counsel

Onyechi Ikpeazu, counsel to former Anambra State governor Willie Obiano, says he believes his prosecution by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission , EFCC, for alleged theft of N4billion is faulty.

The proceeding continued on Thursday, as Ikeazu said: “The subject matter of the charge bothers on accountability for security votes funds.”

“The honourable court lacks the requisite jurisdiction to entertain issues on accountability for security votes funds.

“There is an appeal filed by the Anambra State Government challenging the powers of the EFCC to investigate the security vote of the Anambra State Government.

“The preferment of the entire charge is in bad faith.

“No evidence exists from any witness showing that defendant/applicant passed down directives on the disbursements of security votes and other funds belonging to Anambra State Government.

“The defendant/applicant cannot be made answerable for any purported unlawful actions of officials of Anambra State Government as there is no vicarious liability in our criminal jurisprudence.

“The thinking and conclusion of the prosecution on the counts arose from speculation and suspicion. This honourable court has inherent judicial powers to grant all the reliefs sought above,” he said.

Similarly, Obiano’s successor, incumbent Governor Charles Soludo said the EFCC instituted the suit “in bad faith.”