Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has issued a bold directive banning operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) from carrying out arrests or operations within the state, particularly targeting Abia youths.
In a strong-worded statement made available to the press on Tuesday, Governor Otti declared Abia “fraud-free” and condemned what he described as the EFCC’s selective focus on young Nigerians in the South-East, accusing the commission of harassment and profiling.
“Abia State is no longer a haven for fraud,” the governor said. “Our young people are industrious, creative, and law-abiding. We will not allow any federal agency to criminalize their innovation under the guise of fighting cybercrime.”
Otti urged the EFCC to redirect its focus to more pressing national threats such as violent herders and bandit groups terrorizing communities across the country.
He specifically mentioned Fulani herdsmen and armed bandits as culprits responsible for killings and insecurity in many parts of Nigeria.
“If the EFCC wants to be useful, let them go after Fulani herdsmen and bandits that are killing innocent Nigerians every day,” the governor stated.
Governor Otti’s announcement has sparked both applause and controversy, with many youth groups in the South-East hailing the move as long overdue, while legal analysts and federal officials question whether a governor has the constitutional authority to bar a federal agency from operating within a state.
This development marks a significant chapter in the ongoing debate over federalism, law enforcement, and youth rights in Nigeria. As tensions mount, all eyes are on the EFCC for a response and possible next steps.