The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has confirmed the dismissal of 27 officers in 2024 for involvement in fraudulent activities and misconduct. This development was disclosed in a statement by Dele Oyewale, the EFCC’s Head of Media and Publicity, who emphasized the Commission’s strict zero-tolerance policy for corruption within its ranks.
According to the statement, the dismissals were based on recommendations from the Staff Disciplinary Committee and were approved by the EFCC’s Executive Chairman, Mr. Ola Olukoyede. Oyewale explained that the affected officers were found guilty of various infractions that contravened the Commission’s standards of conduct.
Olukoyede reaffirmed the EFCC’s commitment to maintaining integrity within its operations, stressing that all allegations of misconduct would be thoroughly investigated. He reiterated that no staff member is above disciplinary action, regardless of rank or position.
The Commission also addressed reports of fraudulent claims, including a trending allegation of $400,000 involving a Sectional Head, which it assured the public would be investigated. Furthermore, it highlighted the activities of impersonators and blackmailers who falsely claim affiliations with the Commission to extort money from suspects under investigation.
In one instance, two individuals, Ojobo Joshua and Aliyu Hashim, were arraigned before a Federal Capital Territory High Court for attempting to extort $1 million from a former Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority, Mohammed Bello-Koko. The EFCC described such activities as disreputable and urged the public to report similar cases.
The statement also warned against attempts to blackmail EFCC officers, noting that some suspects resort to unwholesome tactics after failing to compromise investigators. Such acts, it said, would not distract the Commission from its mandate.
This latest development underscores the EFCC’s resolve to ensure accountability within its workforce while maintaining public confidence in its anti-corruption efforts. The Commission has reassured Nigerians of its dedication to upholding its mandate with integrity and transparency.
