EFCC to ADC: Stop sulking over probes, fraud is fraud, we’re also investigating APC members too
EFCC to ADC: Stop sulking over probes, fraud is fraud, we’re also investigating APC members too
In a strong rebuttal to accusations from the African Democratic Congress (ADC), the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has defended its investigative practices, stating that its probes into political figures are not politically motivated.
The anti-graft agency emphasised its non-partisan nature, asserting that it treats all corruption cases impartially, irrespective of party affiliation.
In a statement released Tuesday, the EFCC’s Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, affirmed that all investigations are based on evidence, not political influence.
“Fraud is fraud. Corruption is corruption,” Oyewale said. “There is no sacred cow, protected interest, or partisan consideration in the investigation and prosecution of corruption.”
This response follows the ADC’s claim that the EFCC is specifically targeting opposition leaders with politically driven summons and opening cases based on political ties rather than new evidence.
The EFCC rejected these allegations as “self-serving, diversionary, narrow, and idle,” insisting that all corruption allegations must be investigated regardless of when they are made or the political context.
“Every corruption allegation deserves to be investigated, and there is no constraint of time and season in criminal investigations,” Oyewale stated.
To support its position, the Commission pointed out that it is also actively investigating several high-profile members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), including governors and ministers. It noted that court records show “several political figures from all divides are answering charges of alleged economic and financial crimes and other acts of corruption.”
The EFCC concluded by reminding the public that it is an independent body funded by taxpayers, not the ruling party, and that it belongs to “the Nigerian people.”
The agency urged political parties to allow it to carry out its duties without interference, adding that its investigations are discreet and that it will not disclose details prematurely.
“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.
“All well-meaning Nigerians are enjoined to ignore political statements meant to heat up the polity and divert attention from the pillage of the national treasury,” Oyewale stated.
