The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) says it is a national agency serving all Nigerians, not an arm of any political party.
Reacting to comments by the African Democratic Congress (ADC), the Commission affirmed that it is funded by taxpayers and operates independently of partisan control.
While acknowledging the ADC’s remark that “The EFCC does not belong to the APC. It belongs to the Nigerian people,” EFCC Executive Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, said the agency’s work spans all political divides.
“If I am not condemned for investigating both former and serving strong ruling party governors and ministers, I should not be condemned for also investigating opposition figures,” he stated.
The ADC had alleged that recent EFCC summons to opposition politicians were politically motivated and based on reopened cases. The EFCC dismissed the claim as “self-serving, diversionary, narrow and idle,” insisting that all corruption allegations merit investigation, regardless of timing.
The agency noted that political leaders from different parties are currently facing trial for alleged economic and financial crimes, while many serving governors of varying political backgrounds are under investigation.
Olukoyede stressed that there are no untouchables in its operations.
“Fraud is fraud. Corruption is corruption. There is no sacred cow, protected interest or partisan consideration in the investigation and prosecution of corruption,” he said.
The EFCC urged political groups to concentrate on their activities and allow it to carry out its duties, warning Nigerians to ignore statements designed to inflame political tensions and divert attention from the looting of public funds.
