The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has clarified its position on lawyers charging professional fees in foreign currency. EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, made the clarification during a courtesy visit by the President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Oyinkansola Badejo-Okusanya, and his delegation to the Commission's headquarters in Abuja. Olukoyede emphasized that recent comments by the Lagos Zonal Directorate did not represent a blanket policy of the Commission.
Badejo-Okusanya had expressed concerns over the comments, noting that charging professional fees in foreign currency does not, by itself, constitute a criminal offence. The NBA President urged the EFCC to maintain due process in its investigations and arrests, particularly by conducting thorough investigations before prosecution, and avoiding sensational arrests and media trials. He stressed the importance of upholding the rule of law and protecting the rights of citizens.
Responding to the NBA President's concerns, Olukoyede acknowledged that some personnel may have acted improperly, but reaffirmed the EFCC's commitment to upholding professionalism and respect for the law. He explained that the EFCC investigates petitions only where allegations fall within its statutory mandate and applicable financial-crime laws. This approach aims to ensure that the Commission focuses on legitimate cases and avoids overzealous conduct.
The EFCC Chairman also emphasized the importance of collaboration between the EFCC and the legal profession in combating economic and financial crimes. He assured the NBA of the Commission's continued efforts to promote compliance within the legal profession and uphold the rule of law. This collaboration aims to strengthen the country's anti-corruption efforts and promote a fair and just society.
The clarification by the EFCC Chairman follows growing controversy among lawyers over whether charging professional fees in foreign currency could automatically expose them to criminal prosecution. The issue had sparked concerns and debates within the legal profession, with many lawyers seeking clarity on the matter. The EFCC's position aims to provide guidance and certainty for legal practitioners.
During the courtesy visit, Olukoyede and Badejo-Okusanya also discussed other issues related to the EFCC's mandate and the legal profession. The NBA President appreciated the EFCC's efforts in combating economic and financial crimes, and pledged the Association's continued support for the Commission's activities. The meeting demonstrated the commitment of both organizations to upholding the rule of law and promoting a fair and just society.
The EFCC's clarification on its position regarding foreign currency legal fees aims to promote transparency and certainty within the legal profession. By reiterating its commitment to upholding due process and professionalism, the Commission seeks to strengthen its collaboration with the NBA and other stakeholders in the fight against economic and financial crimes. The EFCC will continue to investigate and prosecute cases that fall within its statutory mandate.
Key points
- EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede clarifies Commission's position on lawyers charging fees in foreign currency.
- The EFCC investigates petitions only where allegations fall within its statutory mandate and applicable financial-crime laws.
- The Commission reaffirms its commitment to upholding professionalism and respect for the law.
