Obi urges EFCC to focus on strategic priorities, leave Randy Peter, Mama Pee alone

Presidential hopeful Peter Obi has called on Nigeria's Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to redirect its focus towards significant corruption cases and strategic priorities, urging the agency to cease pursuing social media activists.

Obi's stance was articulated through the Peter Obi Media Reach (POMR), which publicly criticized what it termed the "needless harassment" of two social media commentators, Randy Peter and Mama Pee. POMR asserted that the EFCC, as a vital institution in Nigeria's anti-corruption efforts, should concentrate its resources on addressing major financial crimes that impede the nation's economic growth, infrastructure development, and public confidence.

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Over the past years, we have seen an increasing trend where social media commentators, political activists and online critics are repeatedly summoned, interrogated or detained over relatively minor or highly debatable infractions.

The group highlighted a concerning trend where social media commentators, activists, and online critics are frequently summoned, interrogated, or detained for infractions deemed minor or debatable. POMR argued that while adherence to the rule of law is essential for all citizens, the EFCC must evaluate whether dedicating substantial resources to online disputes aligns with its core mandate.

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When citizens perceive the agency as a tool for stifling political dissent or managing public relations, that vital trust is eroded.

According to POMR, an excessive focus on social media-related matters could negatively impact public perception of the agency and erode citizens' trust in its anti-corruption initiatives. "When citizens perceive the agency as a tool for stifling political dissent or managing public relations, that vital trust is eroded," the statement read.

POMR implored the EFCC leadership to channel its investigative and legal capabilities toward tackling high-profile financial crimes, public sector corruption, and other pressing economic challenges confronting Nigeria. The group emphasized that the commission should refrain from becoming entangled in political or social disputes, reiterating that its primary responsibility remains the unwavering fight against corruption. "A corruption-free Nigeria is possible," POMR concluded, advocating for a strengthened commitment to transparency and accountability in public service.

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A corruption-free Nigeria is possible.