THE Economic and Financial Crimes Commission EFCC, has perfected ways of attracting attention to its work. The arraigning of former governors, a seasonal EFCC public relations glitz, is tied to challenges it tells the public could militate against its intentions.

Why would it be the concern of the public if some people planned to disrupt trial of the former governors? Is EFCC unable to muster enough security to get the trials going? The public sees the security issue as another EFCC excuse to delay the trials.

The manner of prosecuting anti-corruption cases is important, otherwise prosecution may seem like persecution. The collective spirit of enthusiastic Nigerians has been dampened over endless waiting for the outcome of some of these celebrated cases. The recent arraignment of former governors did not generate much public interest because the general attitude is indifference. Nigerians are no longer impressed with arraignments of former public office holders and the low quality theatre they provide.

Nigerians want to see logical conclusion of each high profile prosecution EFCC initiates. Apart from the conviction of former Chairman of the Board of Nigeria Port Authority, NPA, Chief Olabode George, no other notable figure has been jailed for corruption, though almost all former governors have a warehoused matter with EFCC.

It is no longer enough for EFCC to reel out winding count charges against former public officers in court all in a bid to show it is working. Once the accused are granted bail, in most instances, no mention is made of the case again. This has given free rein to public scepticism on the commission’s commitment to the anti-corruption crusade. Will the cases be resolved quietly after the publicity drama?

Former public office holders have accepted the EFCC drama as part of the burden of their office. They have learnt to prepare for it by keeping aside resources running into billions of Naira to meet EFCC bail conditions that once seemed unattainable. They have the means to assemble uniformed supporters for their court appearances.

EFCC often blames the slow judicial process for inconclusive prosecution of these cases. It has at different fora called for the establishment of special courts for financial crimes. The issue transcends this. Punishment of those who breach public trust is uncertain, particularly if they are highly placed. There must be an end to the pervasive culture of impunity in order to combat corruption. Special courts are not elixirs.

Prosecutions should be serious and should not be perceived as politically motivated. Public perception of the commission’s work is important. What has happened to the cases of other former state governors some of who appear to have found a haven in the Senate? Do cases at the EFCC cease with attainment of high political office even if the office holder does not have immunity?

After the bails will the recent cases continue? EFCC should strive for less publicity stunts unless they will result in convictions. Nigerians want punishment for corrupt office holders. The shows are not bringing in the convictions and the culture of impunity continues growing.