By Kenneth Okoh-Oboh

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, is in court with Dr. Oba Otudeko. That’s no news, especially as the media was awash with reports of the arraignment even before Otudeko was properly notified. There are other parties in the case. However, Oba Otudeko’s personality and status has, perhaps, made him a special focus, or even biased target by the EFCC.

Therefore, when Dr. Otudeko expressed disappointment that “these false allegations were deliberately made public, leading to an unfortunate media trial prior to being properly notified,” he cannot be faulted. Again, the transaction over which EFFC is performing a resurrection took place 12 years ago. And same issue was investigated by the same EFCC and resolved eight years ago. Yes, the Commission can decide to re-investigate a matter within the ambit of the law. And yes, the matter is in court. But you cannot shave a man’s beard in his absence. So why inform everyone, except the person concerned, about your decision to go to court again?

The court rightly turned down EFCC’s request for a warrant of arrest, and also faulted the publicity of the arraignment when the persons concerned were not served. Otudeko has said he looks forward to addressing this matter comprehensively and appropriately in due course. For now, he cannot be faulted for being disappointed and embarrassed.

Persons have expressed curiosity as to the timing of this “attack and the targeted negative campaign that has followed”. Is it a coordinated attempt draw attention away from the issues on ground regarding FBN Holdings, especially where over 1.2 million shareholders are involved?

Let’s remember that Dr Otudeko is among the very few Nigerians that have devoted 60 years of their professional career to Nigeria, creating jobs, driving investments, and positively impacting countless lives. And he remains passionate about the nation.

The law is the law. It must take its due course. But for it to be dealt in an underhand manner regarding somebody of Otudeko’s status is a reflection of what the everyday Nigerian must be going through in the hands law enforcement agents. Yes, he has the right to be disappointed at those entrusted with the sacred duty of maintaining law and order, such as the EFCC.

Okoh-Oboh, a public affairs commentator, wrote in from Lagos