The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has dismissed accusations by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) that its recent investigations into some opposition figures are politically motivated.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede described the ADC’s claims as a rude shock and an unwarranted blame game, accusing the party of attempting to shield politically exposed persons from accountability.
The ADC had alleged that the anti-graft agency’s summons to certain opposition members were based on old cases revived for political reasons. Olukoyede rejected this, saying the assertions were self-serving, diversionary, and an attempt to whitewash individuals with corruption questions to answer.
“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 said. “Nothing will make an innocent person answer any charge from the EFCC.”
He maintained that the EFCC’s investigations cut across party lines, pointing to ongoing probes involving serving governors, ministers, and senior ruling party members. Court records, he noted, show that politicians from all political backgrounds are currently facing trial for alleged economic and financial crimes.
“Many serving state governors of various political colours are on the EFCC radar. We will not be blackmailed into making full disclosures of ongoing investigations, no matter the provocation,” he stated.
While acknowledging the ADC’s position that the EFCC belongs to the Nigerian people and is funded by taxpayers, not the ruling party, Olukoyede argued that this reality underscores the need for impartiality.
“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,” he said.
Olukoyede urged political parties to focus on their activities and refrain from distracting the EFCC from its constitutional duty. He insisted that the only immunity against investigation is accountability and probity, and called on Nigerians to disregard politically charged rhetoric designed to heat up the polity and divert attention from the pillage of the national treasury.
The statement was signed by Dele Oyewale, Head of Media and Publicity, on August 12, 2025.
