The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has clarified that comments attributed to one of its zonal offices regarding lawyers charging professional fees in foreign currency do not constitute an official policy of the Commission.
The clarification was provided by EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede during a courtesy visit by the leadership of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) to the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja.
The meeting followed concerns raised within the legal community after remarks linked to the EFCC’s Lagos Zonal Directorate were interpreted by some stakeholders as suggesting that the collection of legal fees in foreign currency could automatically amount to a criminal offence.
NBA President Oyinkansola Badejo-Okusanya, SAN, told the Commission that such an interpretation had generated anxiety among legal practitioners.
She maintained that the charging of professional fees in foreign currency, on its own, does not constitute a criminal act and urged the Commission to provide clarity on its position.
Responding, Olukoyede stated that he remains the official spokesman on policy matters for the EFCC and stressed that the comments attributed to the Lagos office had been taken out of context.
According to him, the Commission investigates complaints and petitions only where allegations fall within the scope of its statutory responsibilities and relevant financial crime laws.
He explained that each matter brought before the EFCC is assessed on its specific facts and circumstances before any decision is made regarding investigation or prosecution.
The NBA also used the meeting to advocate stronger adherence to due process in anti-corruption investigations.
The association urged the Commission to ensure thorough investigations before filing charges and cautioned against practices that could create the impression of media trials or premature conclusions.
Badejo-Okusanya emphasised the importance of balancing effective law enforcement with the protection of constitutional rights and the presumption of innocence.
In response, Olukoyede acknowledged concerns about instances of overzealous conduct by some personnel and assured the NBA that the Commission remains committed to professionalism, accountability and respect for the rule of law.
He further expressed the EFCC’s willingness to strengthen collaboration with the legal profession in promoting justice and combating financial crimes.
The engagement highlights ongoing efforts by both institutions to foster mutual understanding and improve confidence in the administration of justice while ensuring that anti-corruption measures are implemented within the bounds of the law
