Former Senate President Bukola Saraki has received court permission to amend two lawsuits he filed against Nigeria’s leading anti-corruption agencies. The Federal High Court in Abuja, under the guidance of Justice Inyang Ekwo, granted Saraki’s request on Monday, enabling modifications to his cases against the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), and others.
Saraki’s legal representative, Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Tunde Afe-Babalola, submitted the amendment motion on July 29, with no objections from the defense counsel. Justice Ekwo set a hearing date for February 6, 2025, and warned that any counsel causing delays would face personal penalties.
The legal proceedings began in May 2019, when Saraki filed lawsuits against six respondents, including the Attorney-General, Inspector-General of Police, and State Security Service, challenging the EFCC’s investigation into his finances during his tenure as Kwara State Governor from 2003 to 2011. The case, which has been reassigned multiple times, was initially halted by a court order from retired Justice Taiwo Taiwo.
This recent approval allows Saraki to refine his legal strategy as he continues to contest the EFCC’s scrutiny, which he argues has been used to evade interrogation for over two years. The upcoming February hearing is expected to be a crucial moment in this ongoing legal battle.
