In a bold response to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has firmly dismissed accusations of politically motivated investigations against opposition leaders.
EFCC Executive Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, stated, “If I’m not condemned for investigating both former and current ruling party governors and ministers, I should not be condemned for also investigating opposition figures.” This statement came after the ADC’s unexpected attack on the Commission, accusing it of targeting opposition members without justification.
The ADC claims that recent summonses issued by the EFCC are merely attempts to intimidate political opponents, insisting these are not new cases but rather old files reopened due to shifting political alliances. However, the EFCC countered that every corruption allegation warrants investigation, regardless of timing or season.
Court records reveal that numerous political figures from all parties are currently facing charges related to alleged economic and financial crimes. The EFCC has made it clear that it is actively looking into corruption allegations against key figures within the ruling party, including several state governors from various political parties.
The EFCC emphasized that it operates independently, stating, “The EFCC does not belong to the APC. It belongs to the Nigerian people.” They urged political groups like the ADC to focus on their partisan activities instead of attempting to undermine the Commission’s mandate.
The Commission asserted that those called in for questioning know their involvement in issues that require investigation. “Fraud is fraud. Corruption is corruption,” the EFCC stated, reinforcing its commitment to hold everyone accountable, regardless of their political affiliation.
As the EFCC continues its work, it calls on Nigerians to disregard politically charged statements aimed at distracting from the ongoing fight against corruption and the misuse of national resources.
