The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has dismissed 27 of its officers in 2024 over allegations of fraudulent activities and professional misconduct.
This was disclosed in a statement by Dele Oyewale, Head of Media & Publicity for the Commission, on Saturday.
According to the statement, the dismissal followed recommendations by the EFCC’s Staff Disciplinary Committee and was approved by the Executive Chairman, Mr. Ola Olukoyede.
“In its quest to enforce integrity and rid its fold of fraudulent elements, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, dismissed twenty-seven (27) officers from its workforce in 2024,” the statement read.
The decision underscores the Commission’s zero-tolerance stance on corruption within its ranks. Mr. Olukoyede emphasized that every allegation against EFCC staff would be thoroughly investigated, citing an ongoing probe into a $400,000 claim involving a supposed staff member and a Sectional Head.
“Olukoyede reiterated the commitment of the Commission to zero tolerance for corruption, warning that no officer is immune to disciplinary measures,” Oyewale added.
The EFCC also cautioned the public against impersonators and extortionists exploiting the name of the Commission or its chairman. Two alleged members of such a syndicate, Ojobo Joshua and Aliyu Hashim, are currently facing trial for attempting to extort $1 million from a former Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority, Mohammed Bello-Kaka.
The Commission stressed that its chairman, Mr. Olukoyede, is a person of integrity who cannot be influenced by monetary inducements and urged the public to report any attempts of extortion or blackmail involving EFCC officials.
“Olukoyede remains a man of integrity that cannot be swayed by monetary influences. The public is enjoined to always report such disreputable elements to the Commission,” the statement emphasized.
The EFCC also raised concerns over ongoing attempts to blackmail its officers by individuals under investigation who have failed to compromise their investigators. The Commission urged the public to disregard such tactics, reaffirming its dedication to upholding its core values and enforcing accountability both within and outside the institution.
This development highlights the EFCC’s commitment to combating corruption not only externally but also within its ranks, ensuring public confidence in its operations.
