Mr Ola Olukoyede, Chairman, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has rejected claims that the commission selectively targets opposition figures for investigation and prosecution.
Oloyede explained that EFCC by its operations and investigations are guided strictly by law and professional standards rather than political influence.
He spoke while responding to public concerns over recent high-profile cases handled by the anti-graft agency.
The EFCC chairman addressed criticisms linked to the prosecution of Abubakar Malami, former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, which some commentators have portrayed as politically motivated.
Olukoyede said such allegations ignore the internal processes of the commission and the timelines involved in major investigations.
He maintained that the EFCC does not initiate cases based on political affiliations or personal interests.
Explaining the circumstances surrounding the Malami investigation, Olukoyede said the case did not originate during his leadership of the commission but was already in progress before he assumed office.
He stressed that his role was limited to reviewing and strengthening the work already done.
“The investigation of this man predated me in office, and a lot of people don’t know that.
“Yes, I edited the investigation file. What I did was to ensure that the investigation was carried out in a very professional and thorough manner,” he said.
Olukoyede noted that the EFCC operates through established investigative procedures that involve multiple layers of review, saying no single individual can arbitrarily decide to prosecute a suspect.
According to him, case files often pass through teams of investigators, legal officers, and management staff before any action is taken, a process he said is designed to protect the integrity of the commission’s work.
He further explained that inheriting ongoing investigations is a normal part of leadership transition within law enforcement agencies, including the EFCC.
Olukoyede said that when new leadership takes over, existing cases are assessed to ensure they meet required standards of evidence and legality, rather than being discarded or pursued for non-professional reasons.
The EFCC chairman also addressed broader concerns about public perception, saying that high-profile cases naturally attract attention and speculation.
He emphasized that the commission focuses on financial crimes and economic sabotage, regardless of the status or background of those involved, and that its mandate remains unchanged despite changes in political leadership.
Olukoyede said the commission remains committed to accountability and transparency, adding that it will continue to carry out its duties within the limits of the law.
He stressed that investigations and prosecutions are driven by facts and evidence, not public pressure or political narratives, as the EFCC seeks to uphold its responsibility to combat corruption and financial crime across the country.
Source – Vanguard Newspaper
(vitalnewsngr.com)
