Kano anti-graft agency alleges judicial interference in multi-million naira case
THE Kano State Public Complaints and AntiCorruption Commission has alleged some judges were interfering in most of its high profile corruption cases in Kano.
Besides, the commission insisted that it would no longer tolerate court orders that flout the laws that empower the commission.
Chairman of the Commission, Muhuyi Magaji Rimin-gado, who raised the alarm while receiving an award at the weekend, lamented series of expert orders restricting investigation of some corrupt cases.
Muhuyi, who specifically cited a multi-million naira scandal under the commission’s investigation, lamented that the case was being frustrated by a sitting state judge, who stood against further investigation of the matter.
He said despite the achievements recorded in the fight against corruption and transparency in government’s business and accountability, some overzealous judges were undermining the commis- sion’s effort.
“Our major challenge is the judiciary. We believe as an agency, every arm of government is empowered to operate independently. But you will feel frustrated when the judiciary that should prosecute cases will prevent investigation.
“We are not happy over a situation where a judge will sit in his chamber and order you to stop a multimillion naira case. For me, we will only obey court orders that respect the institution we are heading and if a judge refuses to respect the laws and constitutional responsi- bility of our agency, we would not accept that.
“Because issues of that nature are really preventing the effectiveness of our work and we would not accept that,” Muhuyi said.
On the achievement in the fight against corruption in the state, Muhuyi said Kano had set the pace as the only state investigating agencies over misappropriation of public funds in the country.
Muhuyi said: “Any person who follows the trend of the fight against corruption in Kano will appreciate how far we have gone. The evidences are there. Kano has led and has become a role model and reference point to other states in Nigeria, considering our landmark achievements.
“Also, in terms of trans- parency and accountability, we set a benchmark for states to follow. For the first time, a state institution is investigating corrupt agencies and civil servants in the state.”
He said the award was as a reward for his contribution to the society and it will assist to inculcate moral values in the younger generation.