EFCC warns ADC against politicizing corruption cases, emphasises impartiality

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has warned the African Democratic Congress (ADC) against politicising corruption cases, emphasising that its investigative scope encompasses all parties.

EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, said that the commission’s mandate was non-partisan and that corruption allegations were thoroughly investigated, regardless of the individuals involved or the timing of the cases.

In a statement the commission described the ADC’s attacks as a rude shock and unwarranted blame game.

The Executive Chairman of the EFCC, Mr. Ola Olukoyede, particularly accused the opposition party of attempting to politicise ongoing corruption investigations and shield politically exposed persons from accountability.

Responding to ADC’s allegations that the EFCC’s recent summons to some opposition figures were “politically motivated” and based on “old cases,” Olukoyede described the claims as 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,” the EFCC chairman said. “Nothing will make an innocent person answer any charge from the EFCC.”

 Olukoyede emphasised that the EFCC’s work was being guided by impartiality, with no sacred cows or partisan considerations. “Fraud is fraud. Corruption is corruption,” he asserted.

He noted that the commission was probing several high-profile figures from the ruling party and opposition, including serving governors and ministers.

 Olukoyede noted that many politicians from various parties were facing trial for alleged economic and financial crimes.

The EFCC dismissed ADC’s allegations of politically motivated investigations as “self-serving, diversionary, narrow, and idle”.

 Olukoyede urged political parties to focus on their activities and allow the EFCC to carry out its constitutional mandate.

He emphasised that accountability and probity are the only immunity against investigation.

“The opposition figures the ADC is trying to defend know in their hearts that they have issues that necessitated our invitations,” Olukoyede said

The EFCC’s stance underscored its commitment to combating corruption without bias, urging Nigerians to disregard politically charged statements that distract from the fight against corruption.