Former Abia State Finance Commissioner Dr. Philips Nto has expressed frustration over the repeated summons from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Despite being under investigation for the past nine years, he has not been formally charged with any crime.
Nto, who currently works as a lecturer at Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, is urging the Attorney General to review his case and clarify the allegations against him. He questions why the EFCC continues its investigation without taking the matter to court.
Recently, Nto received another text message from the EFCC, demanding his presence in Abuja on short notice to discuss unspecified "grey areas." He is particularly frustrated with the pattern of last-minute summons, often occurring at the end of each year. Despite requesting a week to prepare and to meet at the EFCC's Enugu office, his request was denied, with threats of arrest if he did not comply.
Nto has challenged the EFCC to either bring formal charges or conclude the investigation, emphasizing his readiness to defend himself in court, as he maintains a clean record from his time as finance commissioner. He has also raised concerns for his safety, alleging that the EFCC has unnecessarily threatened him despite his consistent compliance over the years.
Nto has called on the EFCC Chairman to address the conduct of his officers to prevent further damage to his reputation. He has advocated for the EFCC to adhere to the rule of law in its operations, stating that the "current military-style of operation is antithetical to democratic ethos."
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