The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has issued a strong call to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), demanding absolute neutrality in its fight against corruption, particularly in cases involving opposition figures.
Youth Council Raises Alarm Over Selective Justice
Speaking with journalists on Friday, the National Vice President of the NYCN, Umar Lauya, expressed the Council's deep concern about the situation in Bauchi State and other Northern states. He stated that anti-corruption agencies, especially the EFCC, are widely seen as being selectively deployed against administrations led by opposition parties.
Lauya warned that this growing perception is dangerous. "The perception of selective justice generates unnecessary tension, fuels political instability, and diverts attention from governance and development," he said. The NYCN observed with grave concern the notion that the EFCC is becoming a political instrument used against opposition voices.
Demand for Impartiality and Rule of Law
While reaffirming the essential nature of the anti-corruption fight, Lauya insisted it must be conducted with transparency and strict adherence to the law. "When anti-corruption institutions are perceived as tools of intimidation, democracy is weakened," he argued.
He delivered a powerful statement: "No nation can thrive where opposition voices are silenced or criminalised for political reasons rather than genuine wrongdoing. Let it be clearly stated: no individual is above the law, and no institution is beyond accountability."
Lauya emphasized that corruption knows no political party, quoting a serving senator who said, 'We are all thieves here.' He demanded that members of the ruling APC, past and present officials, and all public servants face equal scrutiny. "Selective justice is injustice," he declared, noting that a biased anti-corruption campaign only destroys the process's credibility.
Broader Calls for Governance and Security
The NYCN leader shifted focus to national priorities, urging leaders to invest in grassroots development, health, education, and infrastructure instead of costly media campaigns. He pointed to the recent strikes by tertiary institution workers and allegations of mismanagement as proof of the urgent need for accountable, citizen-focused governance.
Furthermore, the Council strongly condemned the persistent blame-shifting between Federal and State authorities over jurisdiction and responsibilities in tackling insecurity. "Nowhere in the world should disputes between tiers of government be allowed to endanger the lives of innocent citizens," the statement read.
It expressed deep concern over the worsening insecurity—including banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism—across Nigeria, which continues to claim lives, disrupt livelihoods, and threaten national unity. "Security is a shared constitutional responsibility and must never be politicised," the NYCN concluded.
