Justice Muhammad Lawal Shuaibu, the Presiding Judge of the Court of Appeal in Sokoto Division, has called on anti-corruption agencies to focus their efforts on high-profile individuals involved in corrupt practices rather than targeting “yahoo boys” (internet fraudsters).
Justice Shuaibu made this statement on Monday during the opening of the North West Zonal Attorney General’s Anti-Corruption Forum (AGAF), organized by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) with support from the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC), the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IDEA), and the European Union (EU).
The judge stressed the importance of going after influential figures, arguing that such actions are key to ensuring a stable society. “Since 2007, after I stopped handling corruption trials, I haven’t seen any significant progress. Now the focus is on yahoo boys, and this needs to change,” he said.
“I urge everyone here to focus on the bigger fish, as only that will lead to a stable and just society.”
Justice Shuaibu also expressed frustration over the persistence of corrupt individuals in positions of power.
He cited the example of a governor who had been imprisoned under his watch, only to return to power, underscoring the need for closer cooperation between state and federal anti-corruption bodies.
The judge further criticized the practice of issuing ex parte orders by some judges to shield powerful individuals from prosecution, emphasizing that immunity should not prevent investigations into corruption.
“Those with immunity can still be investigated and invited,” he added.
Kano State’s Chief Judge, Justice Dije Aboki, supported Shuaibu’s call, urging anti-corruption agencies to expose corruption across all levels, regardless of the individuals’ status or influence.
ICPC Chairman, Dr. Musa Aliyu SAN, assured that the commission was committed to pursuing high-profile targets but stressed the importance of leveraging technology to speed up the justice process.
Dr. Aliyu also called for the swift passage of the Whistleblower Act, believing it would be a vital tool in fighting corruption by protecting whistleblowers and helping to expose corrupt practices.
Representatives from the European Union (EU) and RoLAC, including Mr. Emmanuel Uche, highlighted the need for enhanced collaboration with state Attorneys General to strengthen anti-corruption initiatives across Nigeria.
