EFCC Defends Arrest and Detention of Martins Innocent Otse
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has clarified its reasons for arresting Martins Innocent Otse, stating that the action was strictly based on multiple petitions alleging financial crimes, not personal attacks made by the suspect against the Commission.
In a press release, the EFCC said, “The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, in the exercise of its mandate of tackling economic and financial crimes, invited Martins Innocent Otse owing to a series of petitions bordering on sundry issues of alleged financial crimes raised against him.”
The anti-graft agency noted that Otse repeatedly ignored invitations, forcing it to act. “He refused to show up in spite of several invitations sent to him through his known addresses and medium of communication,” the Commission stated.
While acknowledging that Otse had made public comments critical of the EFCC, the agency insisted these had no bearing on its decision to arrest him. “It is needful to admit that the Commission is aware of several unguarded attacks of the suspect against its operations. While such conduct is condemnable, his arrest was not informed by such attacks,” it said, adding that relevant law enforcement agencies would be allowed to look into those allegations separately.
The EFCC affirmed the legality of Otse’s detention, saying, “The EFCC has a lawful right to hold Otse in custody like any other suspect being investigated by the Commission. The appropriate Remand Order was obtained in this regard.”
It further revealed that Otse had been granted administrative bail and would be released upon meeting the conditions.
Reiterating its commitment to transparency and accountability, the Commission expressed appreciation for public interest in its operations but warned against undue speculation. “The passion, enthusiasm and torrential reactions to all of its activities are welcome. However, insinuations about its motive in carrying out its assignment should no longer continue. The EFCC should be allowed to do its job without fear or favour,” it said.
The Commission assured that charges would be filed once investigations are concluded.
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