After Public Outcry, EFCC Withdraws Charges Against Maryam Shehu, Abubakar Abdulhamad
The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Ola Olukoyede, has ordered the withdrawal of charges filed against two young Nigerians, Maryam Isah Shehu and Abubakar Shuraim Abdulhamad, who were arraigned before the Federal High Court in Abuja over alleged cybercrime and dissemination of malicious information against the Commission.
The two defendants were arraigned on Thursday, August 20, 2026, before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court, Abuja.
The EFCC had alleged that their actions constituted cyberstalking, contrary to Section 24(2)(c) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) Act, 2015, as amended in 2024, and punishable under Section 24(2)(c)(ii) of the amended legislation.
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However, Olukoyede directed the withdrawal of the charges after considering a plea for leniency from Shehu’s father, as well as appeals from other well-meaning Nigerians.
The EFCC chairman said the decision was taken in response to the passionate pleas and apologies presented on behalf of the defendants.
Consequently, he ordered that the charges against the two defendants be dropped.
Olukoyede, however, warned that the Commission would not tolerate deliberate attacks on its image, operations or reputation through any medium or platform.
He reaffirmed the EFCC’s commitment to carrying out its statutory responsibilities in accordance with the law and in the best interests of the nation.
The development underscores the Commission’s willingness to exercise discretion in appropriate circumstances while maintaining its position against what it considers deliberate efforts to undermine its institutional reputation.
By PRNigeria
