The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has assured Nigerians that the agency will pursue all cases of financial misconduct without regard to political party affiliation.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Olukoyede dismissed allegations that the EFCC selectively targets opposition politicians while sparing members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
He emphasized that the commission’s actions are guided by evidence and the rule of law—not political considerations.
“If we discover that you have stolen money, you will have questions to answer, regardless of whether you are from the APC, PDP, Labour Party, NNPP, or SDP,” Olukoyede said. “Our focus is on the offence, not the offender’s party.”
In response to public criticism, Olukoyede revealed that data from the Commission’s records show that more APC members have been investigated and charged than members of opposition parties.
“You will find prominent members of the ruling party among those we have investigated and filed charges against,” he stated. “It would be unfair to avoid prosecuting opposition figures simply because of political pressure.”
Olukoyede also addressed growing frustration over delays in the investigation of suspended Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Betta Edu, who is accused of misappropriating ₦30 billion in public funds. Edu was suspended in January 2024 after allegedly transferring ₦585 million into a personal account.
“We began investigating Betta Edu as soon as the case came to our attention. The matter is complex with many angles, and we are determined to uncover the full truth,” he said, defending the pace of the probe.
The EFCC chairman reiterated his commitment to impartiality and due process, saying the commission remains resolute in fighting corruption regardless of political consequences.