Anti-Corruption Group Demands Evidence On EFCC Officer Allegations

The Anti-Corruption Crusaders Network has called on those making allegations against a senior officer of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to provide verifiable evidence to support their claims.

The group said allegations concerning the officer’s access to the EFCC chairman and handling of petitions should be considered within the context of the commission’s operational structure and delegation of responsibilities.

In a statement signed by its managing director, Ahmed Mahmud, the organisation said institutions operate through established hierarchies, adding that responsibilities could be delegated by heads of organisations.

“Every organisation has a hierarchy from top to bottom. The head of any organisation can delegate duties and assignments to anyone they trust and have confidence in,” Mahmud said.

The group also said some EFCC operations were conducted on a need-to-know basis, arguing that access to the commission’s chairman did not, by itself, establish wrongdoing.

“Operations are conducted on a ‘need-to-know’ basis,” it said.

The organisation questioned allegations that the officer breached the Commission’s chain of command by obtaining approval directly from the chairman.

“What if the person who was bypassed had been sabotaging the EFCC’s work, and management took this step to protect the integrity of the investigation?” the group asked.

It also questioned how detailed information about the Commission’s internal operations could have been obtained by an outsider allegedly making the claims.

“Besides, how would an outsider even be privy to such internal details?” Mahmud asked.

On an alleged voice recording said to be linked to the matter, the group called for the material to be made available for verification.

“They keep claiming they have a voice recording. Why not simply release it?” the organisation asked.

The group said allegations involving public officers should be properly established before being presented as facts, warning that unverified claims could affect individual reputations and public confidence in institutions.

It urged the EFCC chairman, Ola Olukoyede, to ensure that the allegations were properly investigated and that those making specific claims were required to substantiate them.

“We urge Mr. Olukoyede to identify those raising falsehood and campaign of calumny against the innocent officer and make them prove the rubbish they sent out,” Mahmud said.

The organisation said it would continue to monitor developments at the Commission and urged the officer concerned to remain focused on his duties.