Court Dismisses Application Against EFCC, Others

A Federal High Court sitting in Port Harcourt has dismissed for lack of merit, an application filed by one Chief Saro Manson against one Victor Nicolas and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The application filed in suit No. FHCPH/CS/115/2010 was among others praying the court for declaration that the arrest detention and assault of the applicant by the respondent in respect of a purely civil matter is unconstitutional and in violation of the applicant fundamental right and dignity of person.

It also sought a declaration that Mr Nicolas who is the first respondent is not legally entitled to use the EFCC to demand or recover any purported debt or monies.

The applicant also sought for an injunction restraining the respondent from infringing on the applicant’s fundamental rights.

However, after arguments to counsels involved in the matter, the court presided over by Hon. Justice T. Abubakar dismissed the application for lack of merit contending that the first respondent is entitled by the law to complain against the action of the applicant.

“I am satisfied from the materials before me that the 1st respondent complained against the applicant, I cannot find anything in the action taken by the 1st respondent.

“I therefore resolve issue number one in favour of the respondent and hold that 1st respondent is not liable to the applicant”.

The court also hold that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) was exonerated from  blame as the commission has the statutory powers to investigate all cases of crimes in the country.