Osun: EFCC doesn’t need to consult anyone before freezing suspicious account – Tietie
Legal Expert Defends EFCC’s Authority to Freeze Suspicious Accounts
Frank Tietie, a legal practitioner and public affairs analyst, stated on Friday that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is not required to consult external parties before freezing bank accounts suspected of illegal activities. Tietie’s remarks came during a live interview on Arise Television.
This statement follows a recent decision by the EFCC to freeze an account associated with the Osun State government, just days ahead of the state’s gubernatorial election. In response to the action, President Bola Tinubu directed the agency to promptly lift the court order that had resulted in the account freeze.
During the interview, Tietie emphasized the importance of the EFCC’s autonomy in executing its responsibilities, stating, “It is a case of hindrance of law enforcement and nearly borders on obstruction to justice.”
He referenced past decisions from the Court of Appeal regarding similar matters involving the EFCC, particularly during the tenure of former Governor Samuel Ortom of Benue State. Tietie pointed to Section 34 of the EFCC Act and Section 7, Subsection 6 of the Money Laundering Act to underscore the commission’s legal authority.
“The EFCC didn’t need to apologize or consult before taking action to freeze a bank account, as long as it does so within three days. The EFCC chairman and the commission were acting within their powers,” Tietie said.
He further asserted that it would be irresponsible for the commission to overlook potential criminal activities, stating, “One cannot expect a reasonable and responsible commission to ignore state funds potentially being channeled into terrorist financing, particularly during an election period.”
Tietie’s comments highlight ongoing discussions about the balance between law enforcement and electoral processes in Nigeria.
