In a stark demonstration of its commitment to integrity and anti-corruption, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has dismissed 27 of its officers for engaging in fraudulent activities and misconduct, officials announced on January 6, 2025. This move underscores a significant internal cleanup within Nigeria’s key anti-graft agency.
Dele Oyewale, the EFCC’s spokesman, confirmed that the dismissals were the outcome of thorough investigations by the Commission’s Staff Disciplinary Committee, whose recommendations were ratified by the EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede. “In its quest to enforce integrity and rid its fold of fraudulent elements, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission dismissed 27 officers from its workforce in 2024,” Oyewale stated.
The decision to dismiss these officers comes in the wake of a series of internal reviews aimed at curbing corruption within the ranks of the EFCC itself. The nature of the offenses ranged from fraudulent activities to various forms of misconduct, though the specific details of each case were not disclosed to maintain the confidentiality of the disciplinary process.
In addition to the dismissals, the EFCC has also initiated investigations into a trending $400,000 bribe allegation involving a supposed EFCC staff member offering a bribe to a Sectional Head. This further highlights the commission’s dedication to transparency and accountability. The identity of the staff involved remains undisclosed as the investigation progresses.
The EFCC’s actions have been closely watched, especially after the announcement of the dismissals was followed by the detention of ten more operatives from the Lagos Zonal Command, accused of theft involving missing operational items. This string of disciplinary actions has brought the total number of personnel disciplined this week to 37.
Chairman Ola Olukoyede has been vocal about maintaining a zero-tolerance policy towards corruption within the commission, emphasizing that no officer, regardless of rank, would be exempt from disciplinary measures. This stance has seen the EFCC not only focus on external corruption but also address internal lapses to restore public trust.
However, the EFCC’s approach to transparency in these matters has faced scrutiny. Critics argue that while the dismissals and detentions are steps in the right direction, the commission’s practice of not disclosing the identities of those involved in such scandals might undermine the transparency it seeks to uphold. Advocates for greater openness suggest that the EFCC should follow the example of institutions like the National Judicial Council, which publicizes the outcomes of its disciplinary actions.
The public’s reaction has been mixed, with some applauding the EFCC’s proactive measures against corruption within its ranks, while others express skepticism about the effectiveness and sincerity of these actions, particularly in light of similar past announcements that did not lead to visible long-term changes.
This series of dismissals and ongoing investigations come at a time when the EFCC is under pressure to demonstrate its capability and integrity both in fighting corruption nationwide and in managing its internal affairs. As the EFCC continues its housecleaning, the outcomes of these disciplinary actions will be pivotal in shaping public perception and the agency’s fight against corruption in Nigeria.
