EFCC Denies Politically Motivated Probes, Says No Sacred Cows in Anti-Corruption Drive

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has rejected accusations by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) that its investigations into opposition figures are driven by political motives.

In a statement issued on Monday, EFCC Executive Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, insisted that the Commission operates under a non-partisan mandate, probing corruption cases involving both members of the ruling party and the opposition without fear or favour.

“If I am not condemned for investigating both former and serving strong ruling party governors and ministers, I should not be condemned for also investigating opposition figures,” Olukoyede said.

The ADC had alleged that the EFCC was targeting members of the Opposition Coalition with “politically motivated” summons, claiming that many of the cases being revisited were based on old allegations revived for political reasons.

Responding, the EFCC described the allegations as “self-serving, diversionary, narrow, and idle,” stressing that there is no statute of limitations on criminal investigations and that all credible allegations of corruption deserve scrutiny.

“Available records in our courts show that several political figures from all divides are answering charges of alleged economic and financial crimes. Many serving state governors of various political colourations are also on the Commission’s investigative radar,” the statement read.

The anti-graft agency reiterated its stance that “fraud is fraud, corruption is corruption,” and vowed to continue its work without favouritism. It also emphasised that ongoing investigations would remain discreet and confidential until due legal processes are concluded.

The EFCC urged political parties and interest groups to focus on their own activities and refrain from politicising its work.

“All well-meaning Nigerians should ignore political statements meant to heat up the polity and divert attention from the pillage of the national treasury,” the Commission said.