EFCC

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The EFCC has promised to continue its investigation into alleged stealing of N70bn by Nigeria’s state defence minister, Bello Matawalle.

The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle appears to be in deeper mess as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Friday promised to continue with his investigation over alleged stealing of N70 billion between 2019 and 2023.

The commission said it does not close cases once it opens an investigation.

The Acting Director of Public Affairs in EFCC, Wilson Uwujaren, gave the assurance during a protest by members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Zamfara State under the aegis of APC Akida Forum at the commission’s Headquarters in Abuja, demanding the reopening of the pending case against Matawalle.

He told the protesters led by Musa Mahmud that the commission will look into their demands and see to the end of it.

“I want to commend members of the APC Akida Forum for this peaceful protest. It is within your rights to protest. The constitution guarantees the right of free expression and you have done that today.

“I want to assure you all that EFCC does not close cases. Once we open investigation into a case, we.do not close such matter. So I assure you that this petition will be look into. Thank you very much”, he said.

While presenting a copy of their petition to EFCC, Mahmud requested the commission to reopen the investigation into the corruption allegations against Matawalle.

According to him, the demand comes amidst growing concerns about corruption in Nigeria and the bold steps taken by the APC administration in recent decisions regarding government officials suspected of embezzlement, including a former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello.

He said, “Recall that on the May 18 2023, the Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC), through its then Director, Media and Public Affairs, Osita Nwajah Nwajah, said that the EFCC is investigating Matawalle over allegations of monumental corruption, award of phantom contracts and diversion of over N70 billion.

“According to the EFCC, the money, which was sourced as a loan from an old-generation bank, purportedly for the execution of projects across the local government areas of the state, was allegedly diverted by the governor through proxies and contractors who received payment for contracts that were not executed.

“The commission’s investigations revealed that over 100 companies had received payments from the funds, with no evidence of service rendered to the state. Some of the contractors who had been invited and quizzed by the commission made startling revelations on how the governor allegedly compelled them to return the funds received from the state coffers back to him through his aides after converting the same to United States Dollars (hard currency).

“The companies confirmed that they did not render any service to Zamfara State. Still, they were allegedly directed to convert the monies paid to them into United States Dollars (hard currency) and return them to the state governor through some of his commissioners, notably those in charge of Finance and Local Government Affairs.”

Mahmud also called on the EFCC to investigate the $2.1 billion arms deal, which included Matawalle among the few Nigerians and companies that benefited from the former National Security Adviser’s scandal.

By Uzair Adam

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has reaffirmed its commitment to tackling pension fraud by utilizing all relevant laws without obstruction.

In a statement released on Wednesday in Abuja, EFCC Spokesperson Dele Oyewale conveyed that Oshodi Johnson, Uyo Zonal Director and Assistant Commander of the EFCC, made this pledge during a visit by the Nigeria Union of Pensioners, Akwa Ibom Chapter, to the Uyo Command.

Johnson stressed the importance of safeguarding the rights of senior citizens who have served the nation, asserting that the EFCC is dedicated to identifying and prosecuting those involved in pension fraud.

“We are committed to assisting you and responding swiftly to any reports of pension scams or fraud,” Johnson assured.

The State Secretary of the Union, Obong Cosmos Essien, expressed gratitude to the EFCC for its ongoing efforts in the fight against pension-related fraud, encouraging them to maintain their resolve.

“We appreciate your efforts and encourage you to continue fighting while we pray for you,” Essien remarked.

The Union’s Chairman, Obong Ekpeyong Ekpo, urged the staff at the Uyo Command to persist in their efforts to combat economic and financial crimes, emphasizing that their hard work will be recognized and rewarded.

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.