The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has warned politicians and political actors against attempts to discredit the commission ahead of the 2027 general elections, saying such actions could undermine Nigeria’s anti-corruption fight.
The Chairman of the EFCC, Mr Ola Olukoyede, issued the warning on Thursday in Abuja while addressing journalists after a strategic meeting with senior officials of the commission.
Olukoyede said the commission had observed growing efforts by some politically exposed persons to paint the EFCC as partisan, particularly as preparations for the 2027 elections gather momentum.
“Let me state clearly that the EFCC is not, and will never be, a political organisation. Our mandate is purely to investigate and prosecute economic and financial crimes, irrespective of political affiliation,” he said.
He stressed that the commission would not be distracted by propaganda, blackmail, or intimidation aimed at weakening its operations.
According to him, politicians who engage in corrupt practices should be prepared to face the law rather than resort to smear campaigns against the anti-graft agency.
“Those who have questions to answer should present themselves and defend their actions within the confines of the law. Attempts to discredit the EFCC will not stop investigations or prosecutions,” Olukoyede said.
The EFCC boss noted that corruption posed a serious threat to national development, democracy, and public trust, adding that the commission had a constitutional responsibility to protect public resources.
He assured Nigerians that the EFCC would continue to act professionally, transparently, and without fear or favour before, during, and after the 2027 elections.
“We are committed to doing our work with integrity. No individual is above the law, and no amount of pressure will force the commission to compromise its mandate,” he added.
Olukoyede also called on political parties, civil society organisations, and the media to support the anti-corruption war by promoting accountability and resisting misinformation.
He urged members of the public to report credible cases of corruption to the commission, assuring them of confidentiality and protection.
“The fight against corruption is a collective responsibility. Nigerians must not allow selfish interests to derail the progress recorded so far,” he said.
The EFCC chairman reaffirmed the commission’s readiness to collaborate with relevant security agencies and the judiciary to ensure that electoral-related financial crimes were effectively investigated and prosecuted.