You lack power to investigate Rivers: Wike to EFCC

Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike has said the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has no powers to investigate the financial transactions of the Rivers State government.

According to him, EFCC must first vacate the Federal High Court judgment which said it could not investigate the financial transactions of the Rivers State Government before it can probe the government.

A statement by Wike’s media aide, Simeon Nwakaudu, said the governor spoke yesterday when the Group Managing Director Designate of Zenith Bank Plc, Mr Ebenezer Onyeagwu, visited him in the Government House.

The statement reads: “EFCC has no powers to look into our financial transactions. You cannot be giving our financial transactions to the EFCC, because that it is illegal.

“Unless the EFCC sets aside the judgment, it has no powers to look into our financial transactions. Not that we are afraid, but due process must be followed.”

The governor noted that if Zenith Bank refuses to obey court judgment, the state would be compelled to file the necessary processes to ensure the right thing is done.

He praised Zenith Bank for supporting project execution in the state through facilities, and added that the government will complete the payment of loans acquired by May ending.

Onyeagwu, who congratulated Wike on his re-election, said: “We are pleased with the success you have recorded. We also use this opportunity to congratulate you on your victory in the election and wish for a glorious second term.”

According to him, the bank prays for Wike to make greater progress during his second term. “Zenith Bank and Rivers State have been in partnership for over 20 years. We assure you that in this moment and time, our expectation is that this partnership will get bigger and stronger.

“We assure you of our loyalty and support for the ideas and aspirations of your government. Zenith Bank is willing to support the development initiatives of your government…”