EFCC Debunks Claims of “Sharing” Forfeited Funds as Baseless

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has categorically dismissed a report by Sahara Reporters that alleged N54 billion forfeited by associates of former Central Bank Governor, Mr. Godwin Emefiele, was “shared” among certain ministers and aides of President Tinubu, alongside EFCC officials.

The Commission has labelled the claims as false and irresponsible.

In its official statement, the EFCC firmly denied that any of its officials had participated in the so-called “sharing” of proceeds from forfeited assets, branding the very notion as nonsensical. The Commission made it clear that it operates under strict guidelines established by the EFCC Act of 2004 and the Proceeds of Crime (Recovery and Management) Act of 2022, which outline the proper management of forfeited assets.

The EFCC noted that the sensationalised report betrays the author’s lack of understanding regarding asset recovery processes. Both Acts stipulate that all proceeds from forfeited assets are to be deposited into designated government accounts, with no room for any form of unauthorised distribution or “sharing.”

The Commission also criticised Sahara Reporters for promoting misinformation without providing any details of when or how this alleged distribution took place, let alone who benefited from it. “The TRUTH is, it simply did not happen!” the EFCC stressed, urging the public to disregard the fabricated claims.

The EFCC further warned against attempts to tarnish its reputation, vowing to maintain its commitment to integrity and transparency in the fight against corruption. The agency urged the public to seek accurate information and resist falling prey to sensationalist and misleading stories.

In a time of increasing digital disinformation, the EFCC’s strong response serves as a reminder of the importance of verifying facts before accepting them as truth.