The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has lashed out at the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for what it described as an “unprovoked and baseless attack” on its integrity over corruption investigations involving political figures.
In a statement on Tuesday, EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede accused the opposition party of trying to politicise ongoing probes and protect certain individuals from accountability.
He dismissed ADC’s allegation that the commission’s recent summons to opposition members were politically motivated and tied to “old cases,” calling the claims self-serving and an attempt to whitewash those facing serious corruption questions.
“There is no time limit in criminal investigations. Fraud is fraud. Corruption is corruption. There are no sacred cows or partisan considerations in our work,” Olukoyede stated. “Nothing will make an innocent person answer any charge from the EFCC.”
The EFCC boss stressed that the commission’s investigations cut across party lines, pointing to ongoing cases involving serving governors, ministers, and senior ruling party members.
He said he faced no criticism when probing figures in government and should not be condemned for investigating opposition leaders, noting that court records show politicians from all parties are facing trial for financial crimes.
“We will not be blackmailed into making full disclosures of ongoing investigations, no matter the provocation,” Olukoyede warned.
While acknowledging ADC’s point that the EFCC “belongs to the Nigerian people” and is funded by taxpayers, he said this was exactly why the agency must remain impartial and focused on its constitutional duty.
Olukoyede urged political parties to concentrate on their activities and avoid distracting the EFCC from tackling corruption.
“The opposition figures the ADC is trying to defend know in their hearts that they have issues that necessitated our invitations,” he added. “The only immunity against investigation is accountability and probity.”
He called on Nigerians to disregard politically charged statements designed to inflame tensions and divert attention from what he described as “the pillage of the national treasury.”
The EFCC reaffirmed its commitment to a non-partisan fight against corruption, insisting that its mandate will not be swayed by political pressure.
