In a continued effort to uphold integrity and eliminate fraudulent practices within its ranks, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) dismissed 27 officers in 2024 for various offenses, including misconduct and fraudulent activities.
Disciplinary Actions
A statement released on Monday confirmed that the dismissals were based on the recommendations of the EFCC’s Staff Disciplinary Committee and subsequently approved by the Executive Chairman, Mr. Ola Olukoyede.
Reiterating the Commission’s zero-tolerance policy for corruption, Olukoyede emphasized that no staff member is above disciplinary measures. “Every allegation against any EFCC staff will be thoroughly investigated,” he said, referencing a recent $400,000 claim involving an unidentified EFCC staff member and a sectional head that is currently under scrutiny.
Olukoyede stressed the Commission’s commitment to its core values, ensuring they remain sacrosanct and upheld at all times.
Warning Against Impersonation and Blackmail
The EFCC also warned the public about impersonators and blackmailers exploiting the name of its Executive Chairman to extort money from high-profile individuals under investigation.
Two suspects, Ojobo Joshua and Aliyu Hashim, were recently arraigned before Justice Jude Onwuebuzie of the Federal Capital Territory High Court, Abuja. They allegedly attempted to extort $1 million from Mohammed Bello-Koko, former Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority, under the pretense of securing “soft landing” from Olukoyede on a non-existent investigation.
The EFCC urged the public to report such fraudulent elements, noting that Olukoyede remains steadfast in his integrity and cannot be influenced by monetary bribes.
Addressing Blackmail Attempts
The Commission disclosed that certain suspects under investigation have resorted to blackmailing EFCC officers when attempts to compromise investigations failed. Olukoyede cautioned that these tactics are designed to undermine the Commission’s credibility and should not be entertained.
Public Advisory
The EFCC reaffirmed its commitment to combating corruption and ensuring accountability within its ranks and the broader society. The public was encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities or impersonation attempts to the appropriate authorities.
