The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Ola Olukoyede, has disclosed that the commission conducted a six-month investigation into the founder of Streams of Joy International, Jerry Eze, over allegations of suspected money laundering before clearing him of any wrongdoing.
Olukoyede made the revelation on Wednesday while speaking at the Jerry Eze Foundation Business Grant Award Ceremony in Abuja.
He explained that the investigation was triggered by intelligence reports and petitions after unusual inflows of foreign currencies were observed in a domiciliary account linked to the cleric. According to him, funds reportedly came in from several countries, prompting the commission to scrutinize the financial activities.
The EFCC boss said investigators thoroughly examined the account and later invited Eze for questioning after compiling preliminary findings. He noted that during the engagement, the cleric explained the source and purpose of the funds, which were tied to his ministry and humanitarian activities.
Olukoyede stated that after reviewing the findings and the explanations provided, the commission concluded that there was no evidence of financial misconduct, leading to Eze’s clearance.
He added that the agency has a duty not only to investigate financial crimes but also to acknowledge individuals found to be innocent after scrutiny.
The EFCC chairman, however, emphasized that the commission will continue to monitor financial transactions where necessary as part of its preventive mandate against corruption and money laundering.
He also expressed concern over the involvement of some religious leaders in fraudulent activities, noting that several cases have been investigated and prosecuted. He urged religious institutions to maintain integrity and ensure that places of worship are not used to conceal illicit financial dealings.
