The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has raised concerns about what it describes as orchestrated attempts to undermine its work.
These campaigns, according to the commission, are being driven by certain politicians and groups with vested interests in individuals currently under investigation.
Spokesperson Dele Oyewale disclosed this on Thursday in Abuja, highlighting the growing trend of targeted media attacks aimed at discrediting the commission.
Paid Operatives Behind Smear Campaigns
Oyewale explained that a mix of hired individuals has been mobilized by disgruntled elements to execute these campaigns.
These operatives, he said, are spreading allegations of political bias in the EFCC’s operations, often using sponsored media outlets as their platform.
“The focus of these attacks is the EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, and the commission itself, with phantom claims suggesting political interference in investigations,” Oyewale noted.
Intimidation Tactics Against the Commission
According to the EFCC, the ultimate goal of these campaigns is to intimidate the commission into slowing down or avoiding investigations, particularly those involving opposition politicians.
The tactic, Oyewale said, seeks to foster fear and hesitation within the agency.
He also warned that as Nigeria edges closer to the 2027 general elections, these smear campaigns are likely to escalate alongside heightened political activity.
EFCC Warns Against Distractions
Oyewale made it clear that the commission is monitoring these activities closely.
“The EFCC will not tolerate any effort to distract it from its patriotic mission of promoting public accountability in Nigeria,” he said, reiterating the institution’s non-political stance.
The spokesman emphasized that the commission’s work is guided strictly by law and is independent of any political affiliations.
No One Is Above the Law
The EFCC reminded the public that no politician, whether in the ruling or opposition party, is exempt from scrutiny.
Oyewale highlighted that several prominent figures across the political spectrum are currently under investigation or facing trial for alleged corruption.
He added, “Nigerians should understand that all operations of the commission adhere strictly to the Establishment Act.
References to the presumption of innocence in court are constitutional requirements and not defenses for any individual or group.”
Commitment to Justice Without Fear
Oyewale stressed that the EFCC has no alliances with political parties and will not be pressured into revealing details of ongoing investigations involving politically exposed persons.
“The EFCC remains committed to executing justice without fear or favor in fulfillment of its mandate,” he concluded.
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