The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has reported significant achievements in the past year, including the successful prosecution of four former governors and two former ministers. This announcement was made during a press briefing in Abuja by Executive Chairman Ola Olukoyede, represented by the agency’s Director of Public Affairs, Wilson Uwujaren.
Key prosecutions involve high-profile figures, including:
- Yahaya Bello (Kogi): Facing charges related to over N190 billion.
- Darius Ishaku (Taraba): Along with a former official, charged with mismanagement involving N27 billion.
- Abdulfatah Ahmed (Kwara): Charged alongside his former finance commissioner for mismanagement of N10 billion.
- Willie Obiano (Anambra): Accused of money laundering and theft amounting to N4 billion.
Additionally, former ministers Saleh Mamman and Olu Agunloye are facing charges for misappropriating funds from the Mambilla Hydroelectric Power Project, amounting to N33.8 billion and $6 billion, respectively. Former Minister Hadi Sirika is also involved in two cases, including fraud related to N5.8 billion.
The EFCC is continuing its investigation into Betta Edu, the sacked Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, for alleged misconduct, with N30 billion recovered and 40 linked bank accounts under scrutiny.
Olukoyede emphasized the agency’s commitment to combating illegal vote trading, particularly during recent elections. The EFCC is also addressing allegations of bribery involving social media influencer Idris Okuneye, also known as Bobrisky, stating that corruption within the agency will not be tolerated.
The EFCC has made notable progress against illegal mining, resulting in arrests and ongoing investigations. In the past year, the agency reclaimed assets valued at N248.7 billion and secured over 35 convictions for currency hoarding.
Additionally, the EFCC focused on asset repatriation, successfully returning $180,300 and 53 vehicles to Canada, as well as €5,100 to Spain. Domestically, 14 properties were returned to the Enugu State government, underscoring the agency’s commitment to transparency and accountability in financial matters.
