No Politician Is Above the Law — EFCC

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has reaffirmed its commitment to pursuing corruption cases with absolute impartiality, declaring that no politician or influential figure will be shielded based on political affiliation.

Chairman of the Commission, Ola Olukoyede, made this known on Thursday in Abuja during a press briefing to mark his second anniversary in office.

Olukoyede, who was represented by the Director of Legal and Prosecution, Mr. Sylvanus Tahir, dismissed claims that the EFCC protects politicians who defect to the ruling party from investigation or prosecution.

“It is alleged that politicians who joined the ruling party are being shielded by the commission. The simple answer is that it’s not true,” Tahir stated.

He explained that some of the cases cited by critics — including that of a former Delta State governor — are still under investigation, assuring that “justice will be served at the appropriate time.”

Tahir urged Nigerians to be patient, noting that high-profile corruption cases require thorough investigation to ensure credible evidence and airtight prosecution.

“If we are patient and do diligent work, Nigerians will see the quality of our cases. There is no intent anywhere to protect anyone who switches parties,” he assured.

Addressing another issue, the EFCC chairman also debunked reports that the Commission deducts a percentage from recovered funds without legislative approval.

He described the allegations as “baseless,” citing clarifications by the President of the Senate, who confirmed that the Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA) does not empower the EFCC to make such deductions.

“POCA stipulates that only the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria can authorise statutory deductions, following due legislative procedures,” Tahir clarified.

He stressed that the EFCC operates strictly within its legal boundaries and does not engage in any unauthorised financial dealings.

“EFCC does not have the authority to make statutory deductions and has never done so. We act only in accordance with the law and due process,” he concluded.