A Federal High Court in Abuja has dismissed a suit filed by businessman Paul Afagase, who sought to prevent the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) from probing him over an alleged ₦350 million contract transaction.
In a statement on Monday, ICPC spokesperson Okor Odey said Justice J. K. Omotosho ruled that the anti-corruption agency has the statutory authority to investigate allegations of corruption and cannot be restrained from performing its duties.
Afagase had requested a perpetual injunction to stop ICPC from summoning or investigating him, arguing that the matter was “purely contractual” and should not involve the commission. He claimed the invitation amounted to intimidation, threats of arrest, and a violation of his fundamental human rights, seeking ₦500 million in damages.
The court, however, dismissed the claims, emphasizing that it “will not serve as a shield for individuals seeking to evade lawful investigation.” Justice Omotosho noted that ICPC is empowered to probe corruption allegations, particularly where public institutions and officials may be implicated.
The judge also highlighted that the disputed contract allegedly involved government Ministries, Departments, and Agencies, bringing the matter squarely within ICPC’s jurisdiction. He further clarified that Afagase presented no evidence to support his claim of being previously cleared by the Nigeria Police Force and the EFCC.
“The proper course for the plaintiff is to honour the invitation of the commission to enable it to carry out its investigation,” the judge added.
According to ICPC, the case originated from a petition alleging that ₦350 million was paid in an attempt to secure a government contract. When the contract did not materialize, the contractor reported the matter to the Department of State Services, which referred it to ICPC for investigation.
Odey stated that the ruling reinforces the principle that “investigative agencies should not be hindered from carrying out their statutory responsibilities.”
