The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has reaffirmed its commitment to fighting corruption without fear or favour, insisting that no politician or high-profile individual will be protected because of political allegiance.
EFCC Chairman, Mr. Ola Olukoyede, stated this on Thursday in Abuja during a media briefing to mark his second year in office.
Olukoyede, who spoke through the Director of Legal and Prosecution, Mr. Sylvanus Tahir, said the Commission would not compromise its mandate in handling corruption-related cases.
He dismissed allegations that the EFCC protects politicians who defect to the ruling party to evade investigation or prosecution.
> “It is alleged that politicians who joined the ruling party are being shielded by the Commission. The simple answer is that it’s not true,” Tahir said.
He explained that the reference often made to the case of a former Delta State governor and others was misplaced, as investigations were still ongoing.
According to reports, former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa and his successor, Sheriff Oborevwori, both defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in April 2025. Okowa was reportedly arrested by the EFCC in November 2024 over the alleged diversion of ₦1.3 trillion in oil derivation funds, sparking public outrage and allegations of a cover-up.
> “To the best of my knowledge, that case is still under investigation, and in due course, justice will be served. No one is shielded because of party affiliation,” Tahir added.
He appealed for public patience in the handling of high-profile investigations, stressing that the Commission prioritises diligence and thoroughness over haste.
“If we are patient and do diligent work, Nigerians will see the quality of our cases. There is no intent anywhere to protect anyone who switches parties,” he said.
Tahir also refuted allegations that the EFCC deducts a percentage from recovered funds without legislative approval.
Describing the claim as false, he noted that the President of the Senate had clarified that the Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA) does not authorise the EFCC to make such deductions.
“POCA stipulates that only the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria can make statutory deductions, following due legislative procedures,” Tahir explained.
He emphasised that the Commission operates strictly within the law and adheres to due process in all financial and investigative activities.
“EFCC does not have the authority to make statutory deductions and has never done so. We act only in accordance with the law and due process,” he concluded.
