In a landmark ruling today, a Federal High Court in Lagos has condemned the ongoing media trial in relation to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission's (EFCC) investigation into prominent businessman, Dr. Oba Otudeko, and other individuals connected to the case. The court also rejected the EFCC's request for an arrest warrant due to improper service of the warrant.
The court expressed concern over the increasing trend of media trials, which have often undermined the principles of justice and fairness in ongoing legal proceedings. It emphasized that the media should not be allowed to influence the judicial process by presuming guilt before a court of law has had the opportunity to make its determination. The ruling underscores the critical importance of respecting the rights of individuals under investigation, while upholding the presumption of innocence until proven guilty.
In its ruling, the court highlighted the procedural missteps in the EFCC's attempt to serve arrest warrants to Dr. Otudeko and other key individuals in the case. The court found that the EFCC had failed to properly serve the warrants in accordance with the law, thereby rendering the warrants invalid. As a result, the court dismissed the application for arrest warrants, calling the EFCC’s actions "procedurally flawed" and an affront to due process.
Legal experts have hailed the ruling as a significant step towards strengthening the rule of law and ensuring that due process is followed in high-profile cases. They also noted that the judgment serves as a reminder that law enforcement agencies must adhere to legal procedures to ensure fairness in their operations.
Dr. Otudeko and the other individuals involved in the case have denied all allegations, asserting their commitment to fully cooperate with the EFCC's investigation. They have also called for an end to the trial by media, which they believe prejudices their case and distorts public opinion.