The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has rejected allegations by some political actors accusing the agency of bias, politicisation, and persecution of opposition figures, describing the claims as a misrepresentation of its mandate.
In a statement, the commission said accusations of “weaponisation,” erosion of independence, and selective prosecution are unfounded and ignore the legal framework guiding its operations.
The EFCC said its activities are strictly governed by its Establishment Act, which mandates it to investigate and prosecute all economic and financial crimes. It noted that the only exemption applies to political officeholders with constitutional immunity while in office.
According to the commission, suspects from the ruling party, opposition parties, and non-partisan backgrounds are investigated and prosecuted equally. It added that records from the past two years show former governors, ministers, and other senior figures across political divides facing investigation.
The commission maintained that it is guided solely by its anti-corruption mandate, insisting that claims of a pattern of persecution against opposition politicians are untenable.
It argued that demanding accountability from suspects cannot be described as persecution, stressing that crimes such as embezzlement, money laundering, and contract fraud are not excusable based on political affiliation. “Corruption has no party, religion, or ethnic identity,” the EFCC said.
The agency warned that attempts to pressure or intimidate it into dropping investigations pose a greater threat to democracy than the lawful execution of its duties.
It further described the allegations as a veiled attempt to secure immunity from prosecution for politicians who have moved into opposition, noting that such a position is inconsistent with the Constitution and the EFCC Act.
The commission said it would not succumb to blackmail or conduct inconclusive investigations to appear neutral, urging Nigerians to support its efforts to promote accountability and restore public trust.
