The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has dismissed 27 of its officers over allegations of fraudulent activities and misconduct.
This action followed recommendations made by the EFCC Staff Disciplinary Committee and was approved by the commission’s Executive Chairman, Ola Olukoyede.
In a statement issued on Monday, Olukoyede emphasized that all allegations against EFCC staff, regardless of rank or position, would be thoroughly investigated. He reiterated the commission’s commitment to upholding its core values, ensuring that no officer is immune from disciplinary action.
The announcement came amid ongoing investigations into a $400,000 bribery allegation involving an unnamed EFCC staff member and a Sectional Head.
In addition, the EFCC has issued a warning regarding impersonators and blackmailers using the name of Olukoyede to extort money from individuals under investigation. Recently, two suspects, Ojobo Joshua and Aliyu Hashim, were arraigned before Justice Jude Onwuebuzie of the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja. They were accused of contacting former Nigerian Ports Authority Managing Director, Mohammed Bello-Koko, demanding $1 million in exchange for a “soft landing” from Olukoyede in a non-existent investigation.
The EFCC stressed that Olukoyede is a man of integrity who cannot be swayed by financial inducements and urged the public to report any fraudulent activities to the Commission immediately.
The statement also addressed blackmail attempts against EFCC officers, noting that such actions are often linked to suspects who, unable to compromise investigators, resort to false accusations. The EFCC advised the public to disregard these tactics and stay alert.
