The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has dismissed claims that it has become a tool for the ruling party to target opposition politicians.
In a statement on Monday posted via its 𝕏 account, the anti-graft agency emphasized that its operations are strictly focused on fighting corruption and are conducted without regard to political affiliation.
The response comes after a joint statement by opposition figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, accusing the EFCC, the Nigeria Police, and other state institutions of engaging in “selective justice.” The politicians claimed these actions aim to weaken opposition voices and undermine Nigeria’s multi-party democracy ahead of the 2027 general elections.
EFCC Stands by Its Mandate
In its rebuttal, the EFCC reiterated that its sole mandate is to investigate and prosecute economic and financial crimes, not to target politicians or political parties. The Commission highlighted that it has pursued cases involving individuals from both the ruling party and opposition, as well as non-partisan actors.
“The Commission’s weapon is its Establishment Act, which clearly defines its operations. Corruption investigations and prosecutions apply to everyone, except political officeholders granted constitutional immunity during their tenure,” the EFCC said.
The agency also provided examples of high-profile arrests and prosecutions in recent years, noting that former governors, ministers, and other prominent figures from the ruling party have been investigated alongside opposition politicians.
Accusations of Bias Deemed “Unfounded”
The EFCC described the claims of opposition persecution as baseless, asserting that holding suspects accountable for alleged corruption cannot be equated to political targeting. “Corruption has no gender, religion, tribe, or political party. Investigations are not selective,” the Commission said.
It further warned that attempts to intimidate the EFCC into halting probes against opposition figures pose a greater threat to Nigeria’s democracy than the Commission’s work itself.
“The insinuation that the EFCC is acting to benefit the ruling party is untenable. What some politicians seek through these allegations is effectively immunity from prosecution—a position unsupported by the Nigerian Constitution or the EFCC Act,” the statement added.
Call for Public Support
The EFCC concluded by urging Nigerians to support its mission, describing its work as “dignity-restoring” and vital to national development. The Commission stressed it would not be swayed by political pressure or calls to abandon legitimate investigations.
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“Those seeking to politicize anti-corruption efforts are acting contrary to the national interest. The EFCC remains committed to enforcing the law fairly and without fear or favor,” it said.
