Court Upholds ICPC Authority, Rejects Attempt to Halt N350 Million Probe Against Paul Afagase Johnson

Abuja, Nigeria — A Federal High Court in Abuja has dismissed an attempt to prevent the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) from investigating Paul Afagase Johnson over allegations linked to a N350 million contract.

The ruling clears the way for the anti-graft agency to continue its probe, despite Johnson’s claim that the matter is purely civil and contractual and should not attract criminal scrutiny.

Judicial backing for ICPC’s investigative powers

Justice J.K. Omotosho, delivering the judgment, emphasized that courts are generally reluctant to restrain law enforcement agencies from pursuing investigations where criminal conduct is alleged. “The ICPC could not be restrained from carrying out investigations within the scope of its statutory mandate,” the judge said.

Johnson had sought a perpetual injunction to stop the ICPC from investigating issues connected to a contract involving himself, Chief Richard Okozi, and Rokozi Investment Limited. He claimed that previous invitations by the Nigeria Police Force and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had cleared him of wrongdoing.

However, the court found no evidence that prior investigations had concluded in Johnson’s favor, noting only that he had been invited by those agencies.

Contract alleged to involve government institutions

The court highlighted that the contract at the center of the dispute allegedly involved government Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), placing the matter firmly within the ICPC’s investigative jurisdiction. Justice Omotosho added: “The court would not serve as a shield for individuals seeking to evade lawful investigation.”

ICPC spokesperson Okor Odey confirmed the ruling, stating that the decision affirms the Commission’s statutory powers to investigate petitions alleging corruption, especially in cases connected to public institutions or officials.

The judgment ensures that the anti-graft agency can continue its investigation into Johnson and the associated contract, reinforcing the legal mandate of the ICPC to pursue matters of alleged corruption in Nigeria.