The EFCC has discontinued the cybercrime case against Maryam Isah Shehu and Abubakar Shuraim Abdulhamad, just about 21 hours after their arraignment in Abuja.

The pair were arraigned before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court over allegations of cybercrime and spreading malicious information concerning the anti-graft agency.

EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede subsequently ordered the withdrawal of the charges, citing compassionate considerations.

A statement issued by EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale said the decision followed pleas and apologies made by Shehu’s father, alongside appeals from well-meaning Nigerians seeking leniency for the defendants.

The commission maintained that it had considered the allegations under the relevant provisions of the Cybercrimes Act before the decision was made.

While withdrawing the charges, the EFCC warned against deliberate attacks on its image and said it would continue to protect the integrity of the institution.

Olukoyede also assured Nigerians that the commission would continue to operate within its legal mandate and act in the best interests of the nation.