The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has dismissed 27 officers for alleged fraudulent activities and misconduct,Thecable reports.
In a statement on Monday, Dele Oyewale, EFCC spokesperson, announced that the dismissals were approved by the commission’s chairman, Ola Olukoyede, following recommendations from the disciplinary committee.
According to Oyewale, the EFCC is also investigating allegations against a sectional head. “Olukoyede reiterated the commission’s zero-tolerance policy for corruption, emphasizing that no officer is exempt from disciplinary measures,” the statement read.
“All allegations against EFCC staff are thoroughly investigated, including a recent claim involving $400,000 allegedly connected to a sectional head. The core values of the commission remain sacrosanct and will always be upheld,” he added.
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The spokesperson also disclosed that some individuals have been impersonating the EFCC chairman to extort money from high-profile suspects under investigation. He cited the recent arraignment of two alleged syndicate members, Ojobo Joshua and Aliyu Hashim, before Justice Jude Onwuebuzie of the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja. The duo allegedly contacted Mohammed Bello-Koko, former managing director of the Nigerian Ports Authority, demanding $1 million in exchange for a “soft landing” on a non-existent investigation.
“Olukoyede is a man of integrity who cannot be influenced by monetary offers. The public is urged to report such fraudulent elements to the commission,” Oyewale said.
The EFCC also revealed awareness of plots to blackmail its officers through malicious means, allegedly orchestrated by suspects under investigation for economic and financial crimes.
“The commission remains steadfast in its mission to combat corruption and will not be deterred by attempts to undermine its work,” the statement concluded.
