EFCC Dismisses 27 Officers Over Fraud, Misconduct

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has dismissed 27 officers in a decisive move to uphold its commitment to integrity and accountability within its ranks. The dismissals, carried out in 2024, were the result of various offenses involving fraudulent activities and professional misconduct.

The action followed the recommendations of the EFCC’s Staff Disciplinary Committee and was approved by the commission’s executive chairman, Ola Olukoyede. Mr. Olukoyede emphasized the EFCC’s zero-tolerance policy for corruption and reiterated that no officer, regardless of rank, is above disciplinary action. He assured the public that all allegations against EFCC staff are thoroughly investigated, including a recent claim involving $400,000 against a sectional head.

The EFCC also raised concerns about impersonators and blackmailers exploiting its name for personal gain. The commission recently arraigned two suspects, Ojobo Joshua and Aliyu Hashim, before the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja for attempting to extort $1 million from Mohammed Bello-Koko, a former Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority. The suspects claimed they could secure a “soft landing” for Mr. Bello-Koko in a nonexistent investigation, falsely implicating Mr. Olukoyede in the scheme.

The EFCC reassured the public of Mr. Olukoyede’s unwavering integrity and urged vigilance against such fraudulent schemes. The commission called on citizens to report any suspicious activities involving its name to ensure accountability and prevent further exploitation.

Additionally, the EFCC cautioned against attempts to blackmail its officers. It noted that suspects under investigation for economic and financial crimes often resort to such tactics when they fail to compromise investigators. The commission warned the public to disregard these baseless claims and reaffirmed its dedication to transparency and justice.