Makurdi Catholic Diocese Dismisses Call for EFCC Probe, Warns Against Trial by Social Media
By Archibong Esuene
The Catholic Diocese of Makurdi has dismissed calls for an investigation of its financial affairs by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), describing the demand as baseless and unsupported by any evidence of wrongdoing.
In a rejoinder issued through its solicitor, Mr. Polycarp T. Aande, the Diocese was reacting to a document circulating on social media titled "Open Letter to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC)," purportedly authored by one Mr. Asortar James, who reportedly urged the anti-graft agency to investigate the Diocese and its bishops over financial transactions spanning more than three decades.
The Diocese maintained that the EFCC is a statutory body guided by established legal procedures and does not conduct investigations based on rumours, speculation or social media campaigns.
According to the rejoinder, the author of the publication failed to provide any specific allegation of fraud, embezzlement, money laundering, misappropriation or any other financial crime that would warrant an investigation.
"The Commission acts upon credible complaints supported by facts, evidence and information capable of grounding lawful investigation," the statement said.
The Diocese argued that inviting the EFCC to investigate all donations, investments, assets and bank accounts of the Church over a period exceeding 30 years merely on the basis of unspecified concerns and public discussions amounted to a speculative exercise lacking legal foundation.
It stressed that under the law, criminal allegations must be supported by verifiable facts and evidence, noting that suspicion, gossip and public speculation cannot be used as grounds to impugn the integrity of individuals or institutions.
The Diocese further stated that it is a legally recognized religious institution that has, over the years, provided spiritual guidance, education, healthcare services, humanitarian assistance and other social interventions to millions of Nigerians.
While reaffirming its commitment to transparency and accountability, the Diocese maintained that such principles should not be interpreted as an obligation to submit to harassment, character assassination or unfounded accusations.
The statement also expressed concern that the publication appeared designed to portray the current Bishop of Makurdi Diocese, Wilfred Chikpa Anagbe, and his predecessor, Athanasius Atule Usuh, as persons deserving of criminal investigation despite the absence of any disclosed wrongdoing.
According to the Diocese, such actions are capable of damaging the reputation of the bishops and the institution and may amount to actionable defamation.
The Diocese consequently called on Mr. Asortar James to cease further dissemination of "unsubstantiated allegations" and insinuations against the Church and its leadership.
It noted that if the author possesses credible evidence of wrongdoing, he is free to submit a formal petition supported by facts and documentary evidence to the appropriate law enforcement agencies.
However, the Diocese cautioned that in the absence of such evidence, social media should not be used as a platform to malign the Church or its officials.
The rejoinder further stated that the Diocese reserves the right to pursue all available legal remedies against any person or group found to have published, circulated or republished false, malicious, reckless or defamatory statements concerning its bishops, priests, institutions or activities.
The public was urged to disregard the publication, which the Diocese described as an invitation to speculation unsupported by facts or evidence.
"The rule of law demands accountability, but it equally demands responsibility. Those who make allegations must be prepared to substantiate them," the statement added.
The Diocese reaffirmed commitment to its mission of evangelization, education, healthcare delivery, humanitarian service and the promotion of justice, peace and human dignity.
