POMR faults EFCC’s arrest of activists, calls for focus on anti-graft war

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The Peter Obi Media Reach (POMR) has appealed to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to concentrate on combating corruption and financial crimes, warning against what it described as the unnecessary targeting of social media activists.

In a statement issued on Thursday by its spokesman, Idris Zekeri, the media group said the anti-graft agency should devote more attention to addressing widespread corruption rather than pursuing cases involving online commentators and political supporters.

The statement was prompted by the EFCC’s questioning of social media activists Randy Peter and Mama Pee over alleged naira abuse.

POMR described corruption as one of Nigeria’s greatest challenges, arguing that it continues to undermine economic growth, weaken public institutions and worsen living conditions for citizens.

According to the group, the EFCC occupies a strategic position in the country's anti-corruption architecture and should remain focused on tackling financial crimes and recovering stolen public resources.

“The fight against systemic corruption remains critical to Nigeria’s development and prosperity,” the statement said.

The organisation expressed concern that the commission was expending valuable investigative resources on issues it considered less significant when compared to the scale of corruption confronting the country.

It argued that allegations involving major financial crimes, public sector fraud and economic sabotage deserve greater attention from the agency.

POMR also cautioned that the credibility of the EFCC could be affected if members of the public begin to view it as an institution being used to pursue political opponents or suppress dissenting voices.

The group maintained that public trust is essential for the success of anti-corruption efforts, particularly in encouraging whistleblowers and fostering citizen participation in exposing corrupt practices.

It therefore urged the commission to direct its legal, forensic and investigative capacities towards prosecuting individuals involved in large-scale corruption and economic crimes.

The media organisation further stated that anti-graft institutions should avoid becoming entangled in political controversies and social disputes that could distract them from their statutory responsibilities.

The comments followed the EFCC’s invitation of Randy Peter and Mama Pee, both prominent supporters of Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate Peter Obi, for questioning over allegations related to naira abuse.

The two activists were released after spending several hours with investigators but were instructed to return for additional questioning.

POMR, however, maintained that the agency’s priority should be the pursuit of corruption cases that have direct consequences for Nigeria’s economy and governance.

The group reiterated its belief that a stronger focus on anti-corruption efforts would better serve the interests of the country and strengthen public confidence in the EFCC’s mission.

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