EFCC Slams ADC for ‘Self-Serving’ Claims, Vows to Probe Corruption Without Political Bias

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has strongly criticised the African Democratic Congress (ADC) over what it described as an “unprovoked attack” on its handling of cases involving politically exposed persons. The commission said the ADC’s statements amounted to an unwarranted blame game and an attempt to undermine its credibility.

In a press release made available to journalists, EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede expressed shock at the opposition party’s allegations that the agency’s summons to certain politicians were politically motivated. He described such claims as “self-serving, diversionary, narrow and idle,” insisting that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s mandate is guided solely by the law and not by partisan considerations.

Olukoyede stressed that there is no expiry date on criminal investigations, saying: “Fraud is fraud. Corruption is corruption. There are no sacred cows or partisan considerations in our work.” He reiterated that only individuals with legitimate questions to answer are invited by the commission.

ADC Accusations Called ‘Self-Serving’

The ADC had alleged that the EFCC’s actions were designed to intimidate opposition figures, claiming that the agency was reopening old cases as a reaction to changing political affiliations. In its statement, the party accused the EFCC of targeting political opponents while leaving ruling party members untouched.

Olukoyede dismissed these allegations as baseless, pointing out that court records reveal politicians from across the political spectrum facing trial for alleged corruption. “Many serving state governors of various political colours are on the EFCC radar,” he said, adding that ongoing investigations involve both former and current ministers in the ruling party.

He maintained that the EFCC has shown consistency in pursuing cases without political bias. “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 stated.

EFCC Commitment to Non-Partisan Investigations

The EFCC chairman reaffirmed the commission’s non-partisan mandate, stressing that it operates in the interest of the Nigerian people, who fund its activities through taxpayer money. He said the ADC’s admission that the EFCC “does not belong to the APC” was accurate, and that the agency’s independence must be respected.

Olukoyede insisted that political parties should focus on their own activities and stop distracting the EFCC from its constitutional duty. “The opposition figures the ADC is trying to defend know in their hearts that they have issues that necessitated our invitations,” he remarked.

He also noted that the only immunity against EFCC investigation is a clean record of accountability and probity, warning that political affiliations or public sympathy cannot shield corrupt individuals from the law.

Refusal to Disclose Ongoing Investigations

Responding to calls for the EFCC to reveal details of its ongoing probes, Olukoyede said the commission would not be pressured into making premature disclosures. He explained that releasing such information could compromise the integrity of the investigations.

“The commission will not be blackmailed into making full disclosures of its discreet investigations of any state or non-state actor, no matter the provocation,” he declared. He stressed that corruption investigations must be handled with professional caution to prevent suspects from evading justice.

Olukoyede added that Nigerians should focus on the real issue — the looting of public funds — rather than partisan distractions. He called on citizens to reject political rhetoric designed to heat up the polity and derail anti-corruption efforts.

Appeal to Nigerians for Support

The EFCC boss urged the public to remain vigilant and support the commission’s efforts to recover stolen wealth. He emphasised that fighting corruption is a collective responsibility that requires public understanding and cooperation.

Olukoyede reassured Nigerians that the EFCC will continue to pursue its mandate without fear or favour, and that its operations will remain guided by fairness, impartiality, and due process. “Nothing will make an innocent person answer any charge from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,” he reiterated.

He concluded by reminding political parties that the anti-graft war is not a partisan exercise but a constitutional obligation to safeguard Nigeria’s economic future.