EFCC

By Haroon Aremu 

In a period marked by ongoing high-profile corruption cases by the Economic Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Nigerian authorities urgently need to address the potential dangers of protests and the pressing demand for justice. 

Specifically, some high-profile corruption cases under anti-graft agencies warrant thorough examination to understand the depth of the issue and the necessary steps required for resolution and swift justice dispensation.

Bodies like the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) scheme preach the promotion of national security, awareness and consciousness; thus, I cannot but wonder how these situations affect Nigeria as a nation and proffer feasible solutions.

Communication and information management delivery is important as we have some high-profile cases in the country, and Nigerians eagerly await their conclusion. The EFCC charged with this responsibility should ensure a quick but thorough investigation to reduce corruption in our society, thereby bridging the gap of mistrust between the agency and the populace.

It can be recalled that the former Minister of Petroleum Resources, Diezani Alison-Madueke, has been accused of corruption and money laundering involving billions of dollars. The EFCC has seized properties and assets worth millions linked to her. She is facing charges in Nigeria and is under investigation by the United Kingdom’s National Crime Agency.

 Former governor of Ekiti State Ayodele Fayose is charged with receiving N1.3 billion from the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA) for his election campaign. The EFCC arraigned him, and his trial is ongoing. Also, the former Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) chairman, Babatunde Fowler, is under investigation for alleged financial mismanagement and fraud. 

Similarly, Yahaya Bello, former governor of Kogi State, stands accused of an N80.2 billion fraud. The Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho, has kept the case in Abuja, declining Bello’s request to transfer the trial to Kogi State.

The long list also included former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Godwin Emefiele, who is being charged with financial mismanagement and corruption while leading the apex bank. 

 EFCC’s investigation into Betta Edu, suspended Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, is ongoing, with specific details yet to be fully available. Also, Sadiya Umar Farouq, the former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, and Social Development, is accused of embezzling funds meant for social welfare programs. It is gratifying that the court has asked her to account for over N790bn she embezzled while in office.

Amid these significant corruption cases, there are speculations that some individuals facing probes by the EFCC might be sponsors of planned protests against the anti-corruption agency. This has raised concerns about the motivations behind these demonstrations and their potential impact on national stability.

While peaceful protests are a democratic right, they can spiral into violence, property damage, and disruption of public order. The EndSARS protests serve as a stark reminder of where lives were lost, properties destroyed, and chaos ensued. Protests pose risks to participants and bystanders and can escalate into broader conflicts with law enforcement or opposing groups.

As a concerned citizen, I always preach sustainability in national security and justice enforcement, given the complexities surrounding these high-profile cases and the associated risks of protests.

Efforts to address these issues involved community engagement programs to address grievances before they escalate into protests. This fosters trust and opens channels for dialogue. Strengthen intelligence networks to anticipate and prevent potential violence. This involves monitoring social media and other communication channels for signs of unrest.

There is also a need to provide specialised training for law enforcement officers on de-escalation techniques to handle protests more peacefully and effectively while ensuring transparent and accountable governance to build public trust. This includes clear communication about the progress of high-profile cases and actions taken.

Similarly, fostering continuous dialogue between government officials and civil society to find mutually agreeable solutions to contentious issues is another alternative approach. The EFCC should collaborate closely with police and military personnel, especially during arrests, because the police have higher immunity for legal arrests of public figures, which can help manage high-tension situations more effectively. 

Finally, Navigating the dual challenges of addressing high-profile corruption cases and managing potential protests requires a multi-faceted approach. Swift and fair dispensation of justice, combined with proactive and strategic security measures, will strengthen national security and uphold the rule of law in Nigeria. 

The ongoing cases involving figures like Diezani Alison-Madueke, Ayodele Fayose, Babatunde Fowler, Yahaya Bello, Godwin Emefiele, Betta Edu, and Sadiya Umar Faruq, among others, must be handled with care. Nigerians expect a swift investigation and dispensation of fair judgment to restore faith in our anti-graft agencies and judicial system, which will ultimately deter future corruption.

Haroon Aremu Abiodun is a corp member with PRNigeria Center Abuja and wrote in via exponentumera@gmail.com.

By Uzair Adam Imam

A Kano High Court has adjourned the fundamental rights suit filed by Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, leader of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), and seven others against the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) due to the commission’s failure to file necessary responses.

The applicants, including NNPP, Dr. Ajuji Ahmed, Dipo Olayanku, Ahmed Balewa, Chief Clement Anele, Lady Folashade Aliu, Eng. Buba Galadima, and Sen. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, are seeking to stop the EFCC from arresting them.

At the hearing, EFCC’s counsel, Mr. Idris Ibrahim-Haruna, requested an adjournment, citing the need to file responses.

Despite being served with court processes on June 10, 2024, the EFCC had failed to file responses within the allotted five-day period.

Justice Yusuf Ubale granted the adjournment and scheduled a new hearing date for October 24, ordering the EFCC to file their responses before then. This development comes after the court previously granted an interim order stopping the EFCC from arresting Kwankwaso and the other applicants.

By Uzair Adam Imam

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has raided two popular nightclubs in Akure, Ondo State, arresting over 50 customers, including a groom-to-be, during a Bachelor’s Eve celebration.

The operation, which took place in the early hours of Saturday, also resulted in the seizure of vehicles, laptops, phones, and other items.

The raid occurred at two major nightclubs in the Alagbaka area of Akure, where the EFCC operatives stormed the lounges and event centers, shooting sporadically into the air.

Eyewitnesses reported that the operatives entered the nightclubs, tear-gassing people, beating them up, and arresting them without regard to their identity, even injuring two soldiers in the process.

The groom-to-be was among those arrested, along with his friends, while celebrating his Bachelor’s Eve.

The EFCC operatives allegedly removed CCTV cameras from the scenes and confiscated scores of vehicles, laptops, sophisticated phones, and other items.

The arrested individuals were allegedly profiled as internet fraudsters.

The incident has raised concerns about the EFCC’s methods and the treatment of suspects.

By Uzair Adam Imam

Former Kano State Governor, Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, has taken legal action against the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to prevent his arrest. The suit, filed at the Kano High Court, has been assigned to Justice Yusuf Ubale.

According to sources, the lawsuit aims to restrain the EFCC from detaining Kwankwaso, who is currently under investigation for an alleged involvement in a N2.5 billion campaign fund fraud associated with the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP). The anti-graft agency had previously interrogated him regarding the matter.

Kwankwaso’s move comes as a preemptive measure to avoid arrest and potential detention by the EFCC. The case is ongoing, and further details are expected to emerge in the coming days.

In a related development, the EFCC has been actively pursuing cases of fraud and corruption, with recent arrests and prosecutions of suspected internet fraudsters and electricity agency officials.

This legal battle between Kwankwaso and the EFCC is a significant development in the ongoing fight against corruption in Nigeria, and it remains to be seen how the court will rule in this case.

By Uzair Adam Imam

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has made a significant breakthrough in the fight against corruption, returning 14 properties to the Enugu State government and 324 houses to Kano State pensioners.

The properties, valued at millions of naira, were recovered through diligent investigation and prosecution.

The Enugu State properties were formally handed over to the state government at the EFCC headquarters in Abuja, while the 324 houses were returned to Kano State pensioners who had been defrauded of their benefits.

EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, commended the Enugu State government and Kano State pensioners for their cooperation throughout the investigation and recovery process.

He assured that the EFCC would continue to work tirelessly to recover stolen assets and bring corrupt individuals to justice.

Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, expressed gratitude to the EFCC for its efforts in recovering the stolen assets and praised President Bola Tinubu for his prompt action in ceding the assets to the people and government of Enugu State.

This milestone marks a significant achievement in the fight against corruption and asset recovery, demonstrating the EFCC’s commitment to ensuring that corrupt individuals are held accountable and that stolen assets are returned to their rightful owners.

By Uzair Adam Imam  

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has thrown a stern warning to Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) to distance themselves from corrupt individuals who contribute to the cause of bad governance in Nigeria.

Ola Olukoyede, The EFCC Chairman, made this disclosure in Abuja during a meeting with executives Conference of the Nothern States Civil Society Network.

He called on the CSOs to shun any form of collaboration or support that could undermine the fight against corruption and economic crimes in Nigeria. 

The meeting was said to have taken place at the EFCC headquarters, which has recently been the hub of anti-corruption activities and campaigns.

The venue was filled with representatives from various CSOs across the 19 northern states and the Federal Capital Territory, all gathered to discuss the critical role of CSOs in promoting good governance and accountability in Nigeria. 

Olukoyede bitterly complained about the way some state governments deliberately set up and found CSOs to attack agencies set up to enforce anti-corruption laws. 

He emphasized that such tendencies are against progress and development and urged CSOs to play a more critical role in society’s development. 

In his words, Olukoyede was quoted to have said, “Whatever that is not expedient should be abhorred. It is appalling to see Civil Society Organisations veer off their mandate and be supporting bad governance.

“Please let them know that such tendencies are against the progress and development of the nation. Their platforms are not meant for such engagements,” he added.

The EFCC boss commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for taking crucial measures on Consumer Credit and the Students’ Loan Scheme, which he believes have great potential to curb corruption.

“50 per cent of my job would have been done by the time these policies come on stream. Imagine workers getting car loans and mortgage loans at 3, 4 and 5 per cent to be repaid in the next 30 years. It will reduce corruption to the barest minimum,” Olukoyede said.

He also commended the efforts of some CSOs in supporting the fight against lingering economic and financial crimes and urged them to continue playing a vital role in this regard.

“The CSOs are critical to the fight against economic and financial crimes. Some of the high-profile cases the Commission has prosecuted were made possible by the efforts of some of the promoters of these CSOs,” the EFCC boss added.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

A Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja has granted bail to the former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Godwin Emefiele, in the sum of N300 million.

This comes after his arraignment on charges related to the unlawful redesign of the naira notes. 

Emefiele pleaded not guilty to all four counts, which include approving the printing of N684.5 million and unlawfully withdrawing N124.8 billion from the Consolidated Revenue Fund of the Federation.

He also denied disobeying the direction of the law with the intent to cause injury to the public during his implementation of the naira swap policy. 

Justice Maryanne Anenih granted Emefiele bail, citing that “a defendant is entitled to bail and presumed innocent until proven otherwise.”

The bail conditions include two sureties, who must be responsible citizens and own property worth the bail sum within the FCT.

The sureties must also deposit two recent passport photos alongside their National Identity cards or international passports. 

Emefiele is prohibited from travelling outside the country without the permission of the court. The trial has been adjourned until May 28.

By Uzair Adam Imam

Amidst the devaluation of the Nigerian currency, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has issued a stern warning to embassies, instructing them not to demand foreign currency for goods and services within the country.

In a memo addressed to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede emphasized the illegality of collecting any currency other than the Naira in Nigeria.

The memo, dated May 5, 2024, highlighted the violation of Nigerian laws and financial regulations by embassies invoicing consular services in United States Dollars.

Olukoyede underscored the significance of adhering to Section 20(1) of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, 2007, which designates currencies issued by the apex bank as the sole legal tender in the country.

The EFCC boss condemned the refusal of some embassies to accept the Naira for consular services, describing it as an affront to Nigeria’s sovereignty and undermining its monetary policy and economic development objectives.

Expressing zero tolerance for this trend, Olukoyede urged the Minister to convey the Commission’s displeasure to all embassies in Nigeria, reiterating Nigeria’s expectation for their operations to comply with existing laws and regulations.

This move by the EFCC comes as embassies in Nigeria persist in demanding and collecting Dollars for goods and services, a practice detrimental to the local currency.

By Lawan Bukar Maigana 

Many people believe that journalists also aid money laundering in Nigeria. This may be true as some professional journalists are sometimes hired to protect and polish the horrible images of politicians, like the former Governor of Kogi State, Alh. Yahaya Bello.

Let us be brutally frank: Bello was notorious for owing Kogi workers their salaries for months and even years when he was governor.  

The self-acclaimed White Lion was a ‘cancer’ Kogi workers battled with throughout his stewardship. Surprisingly, a mere eagle chased him, and everyone knows he went into hiding despite his lioness strengths. It is so strange that a perceived ordinary eagle has humbled him. This eagle deserves a national award for successfully turning a lion into an ordinary fearful man.

Unequivocally, I have come to the realization that some lawyers are also culpable when it comes to issues of protecting political elements who looted public funds for their personal enjoyment, forgetting the indomitable eagle that fights fat-belly lions and defeats them, especially when the lions and tigers have eaten so much that they can’t even run, let alone fight back. 

If not unpatriotic, why would a legal luminary describe the EFCC’s move against the former egoistic Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, as ‘illegal’? If arresting or declaring him wanted was illegitimate, what is the constitutional name given to money launderers? I guess they are called ‘My lord’. I can’t even describe how sad I was when I read the news that a lawyer has advised the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) not to act above the law in its efforts to arrest and subsequently prosecute Kogi’s former governor.

I don’t know what the lawyer means by ‘not acting above the law’ in this context because it is the law that establishes the commission and empowers it with the right to arrest and prosecute unjust public officers who turned public offices into a stealing factory where theft is committed with impunity. Professionals like journalists and lawyers should ideally lead the fight against injustice and bad governance and uphold state accountability and transparency through every means available at their disposal, not the other way around.

While writing this afternoon, I read an article by a reporter from The Street Journal. The report was accompanied by a video of a female civil servant protesting against the non-payment of nine years’ salaries by the immediate past Governor of Kogi State. She said, ‘I have not been paid for seven years. Tinubu, are you hearing this? I am dying of hunger. Tinubu, where are you? Yahaya Bello, armed robber.’ I believe there are thousands like her who are suffering in silence due to fear of victimization by either the past Governor or his cult-like loyalists, who can commit unspeakable offences to silence the existing truth that uncovers the wrongdoings of the white lion. 

The lawyer uncommonly went on to challenge the withdrawal of state security details attached to the ‘White Lion’ and even termed it as illegal, adding that Bello is now exposed to great political dangers. I tend to wonder if there is anything as dangerous as subjecting people to hunger and starvation by not paying their salaries for years. It is in the news. The man has been having issues with the Labour Congress over non-payment of salaries for years. I guess the alleged pocketed N80.2 billion Naira largely owned by starving civil servants of Kogi State.

In relation to the charges against Yahaya Bello, the 21st Century Chronicle published on January 12, 2024, that the embattled ex-Governor of Kogi State, along with his nephew Ali Bello, had been arraigned before the Federal High Court in Abuja over a suspicious transaction in a N10 billion money laundering case, transferred in tranches from the accounts of the Kogi State Government and that of the state’s government house account. This, among many similar charges against him, shows that he’s unlikely innocent of the crimes attributed to him.

I am not antagonistic towards Yahaya Bello as a person. My concerns stem from patriotism, and I only wish that the Federal Government will not interfere in his case in any way, as he is a white lion who proudly once said that he is never afraid of any confrontation. Let the truth set him free if he was truthful and honest. We are keenly following his case.

Lawan Bukar Maigana writes from Abuja and can be reached via email: Lawanbukarmaigana@gmail.com.

By Haroon Aremu

It was one evening when my boss simply told me, “I have an invitation from the EFCC. You and Zekeri should join me tomorrow!”

Since I was posted to this PR firm as a member of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), my tasks included writing news and opinion articles and monitoring media coverage related to our clients and stakeholders. Despite being busy with my mobile phone, I never entertained or engaged in suspicious activities that could lead to fraudulent corrupt intents, whether online or offline.

“The invitation indicates 10 am, but we should leave the office at 9 am to arrive there on time. Have a nice day!” the boss interjected my thoughts before I could even respond.

I immediately picked up my phone and Googled terms like “EFCC,” “invitation,” “guest,” and “youth.” The search results left me apprehensive—students, top politicians, and public figures had all been guests (meaning detained) after an invitation (meaning investigation) by the EFCC operatives, primarily related to online fraud and other corrupt practices.

Despite the EFCC’s efforts to combat corruption across all sectors, questions persist about the perceived preferential treatment given to political officials and government figures compared to ordinary citizens or young internet fraudsters. Citizens argue that the principle of equality before the law must be upheld, urging for a more equitable approach to justice by law enforcement agencies.

Some contend that the EFCC tarnishes people’s image and reputation. I often wonder whether suspects in EFCC custody are truly innocent of the accusations or allegations, given the damning reports and stories—such as the ongoing case involving former Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State.

However, accountability must be a two-way street. While the EFCC bears the responsibility of upholding the law, the accused must also uphold transparency and sincerity to avoid tarnishing their image.

The mandates of the EFCC can be incredibly demanding, considering the fate of past chairmen who faced challenges and controversies both during and after their tenure. The unsteady nature of leading the agency underscores the gravity of the task at hand and the constant threat of backlash from political intrigue.

Recently, the arrest and prosecution of cross-dresser Okuneye Idris Olanrewaju, alias Bobrisky, and celebrity barman Pascal Okechukwu, popularly known as Cubana Chief Priest, on allegations of misusing the national currency caught public attention. Both were accused of abusing Naira notes by spraying and tampering with them during social events, contravening the Central Bank Act of 2007.

While the cases of these two influencers may impact nightlife enthusiasts, musicians, and public gatherings, they also serve as a deterrent against extravagant spending and flaunting wealth irresponsibly. Such measures, while initially restrictive, contribute to a more responsible and accountable society.

I have been closely following an ongoing investigation into a financial scandal involving the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, and Social Development. The investigation became even more interesting when the EFCC confirmed the recovery of $445,000 and N3 billion, in addition to the earlier retrieval of N30 billion. The probe, initiated after the suspension of Minister Dr. Beta Edu, has now extended to her predecessor, Sadiya Umar-Farouq, and Halima Shehu, the Coordinator of the National Social Insurance Programmes Agency.

There were also probes into fraudulent activities related to COVID-19 funds, World Bank loans, and the Abacha loot, among others.

However, beyond its role in tackling financial crimes, the EFCC also engages in advocacy campaigns against the scourge of corrupt practices.

Many questions consumed my thoughts on the EFCC until I fell asleep in the Corper’s Lodge close to the office. I woke up even earlier than usual, anxiously pacing around my room, hoping my boss wouldn’t ask me to accompany him again.

However, my hopes were dashed when my phone rang, and my colleague informed me that our boss was already outside waiting for me in the car.

Fearfully, as I emerged from my room, I noticed that our boss’s driver was not available to drive us. It was very unusual. My senior colleague, Mr Zekeri, instructed me to sit in the back seat while he sat in the passenger seat as the boss drove us.

As we zoomed off, I couldn’t shake the feeling that this was a very strange affair, especially since it was rare for my boss to drive himself.

We arrived at the EFCC gate precisely at 9:40 A.M. The security personnel were on high alert, wearing stern expressions. My boss introduced himself, explaining that we had an appointment at 10 A.M. The security guard insisted we wait until the exact time before entering, so we bided our time nearby. Minutes after 10 A.M., we were granted entry.

As we proceeded to the office, I noticed other staff members, including cleaners and gardeners, wearing friendly smiles and offering warm greetings. In fact, when I almost slipped, one senior officer quickly helped me regain my balance. This experience led me to realize that the EFCC has a diverse staff, with some appearing stern but others displaying kindness and politeness.

Once inside, our phones were immediately confiscated, and we were escorted to a secure area with heavily armed security personnel. We proceeded to the registration room to provide our details, then we were led upstairs to an office where we underwent thorough security checks before being seated. I positioned myself beside my boss, hoping his presence would offer some relief.

A female EFCC staff inquired if we needed anything, but we politely declined. She was even jovial with us. Eventually, we were informed that it was time to proceed.

We were then escorted to a larger room, more like a conference hall, where we encountered a sizable crowd.

As we entered the room, my boss was warmly received by senior officials from the anti-corruption agency’s Public Affairs Department. 

It then dawned on me that the ‘invitation’ extended to my boss was not for a suspect but as a Guest Speaker to discuss “Effective Public Relations Strategies for Law Enforcement Agencies” at the quarterly lecture organized by the Public Affairs Department of the Agency.

The lecture aligns with the dreams of Ola Olukoyede, the Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, who aims to constantly hone the public relations skills of staff.

This visit corrected the erroneous impression that visitors to the EFCC office were all financial crime suspects. It also dispels the notion that the Agency is merely a den of lions waiting to pounce on unsuspecting visitors.

Haroon Aremu is a corps member with PRNigeria Centre, Abuja, and wrote in via exponentumera@gmail.com.