The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) announced it is investigating several bank executives for various offenses.
The EFCC submitted a preliminary report on former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Betta Edu, to President Bola Tinubu. Approximately five bank executives are currently serving various jail terms in custodial centers across the country.
Wilson Uwajaren, the Director of Public Affairs, shared this information while discussing the commission’s achievements under Ola Olukoyede. The announcements highlight the EFCC’s ongoing efforts to combat corruption within the banking sector and government.
Wilson Uwajaren stated that the EFCC is currently investigating several bank executives, emphasizing that the banking sector has not been overlooked.
He noted that between 2009 and 2011, at least five bank executives were investigated and served jail terms. Uwajaren mentioned that there are still bank executives under investigation. He clarified that bank managing directors are not immune to EFCC investigations or prosecution.
The EFCC will not disclose the names of those under investigation until the processes are concluded. Uwajaren confirmed that the EFCC has submitted a preliminary report on Betta Edu to the president, and the investigation is ongoing.
He mentioned that the EFCC is monitoring approximately 140 bank accounts, noting that thorough investigations take time. Uwajaren addressed allegations against controversial crossdresser Idris Okuneye, also known as Bobrisky, stating that he may face new charges if the allegations against the EFCC are proven false.
Bobrisky allegedly claimed in a voice note that he bribed EFCC officers with N15 million to drop money laundering charges against him. The comments emphasize the EFCC’s commitment to integrity and transparency in its investigations, regardless of public figures involved.
The EFCC has denied the allegations made against it and established a committee to investigate the matter. Uwajaren highlighted that providing false information to the EFCC can lead to charges, emphasizing the seriousness of such allegations.
He referenced a portion of the EFCC Act that allows for prosecution if someone gives false information to the agency. Uwajaren stated that he would not preempt the panel’s findings and urged patience while the investigation is conducted. He assured that the EFCC would provide updates on the investigation’s outcome once it is completed.
The EFCC has recovered a total of ₦248 billion under the leadership of Chairman Ola Olukoyede.
Four former governors—Yahaya Bello (Kogi), Abdulfatah Ahmed (Kwara), Willie Obiano (Anambra), and Darius Ishaku (Taraba)—have been prosecuted for alleged corruption. Two former ministers of power, Saleh Mamman and Olu Agunloye, along with former aviation minister Hadi Sirika, are facing prosecution by the EFCC.
In the past year, the EFCC secured 3,455 convictions across various categories of financial crimes and corruption. Under Olukoyede’s leadership, the EFCC recorded significant recoveries in multiple currencies, totaling over $105 million and various other foreign currencies.
The EFCC’s convicts come from various social classes, highlighting a broad range of offenses. Idris Okuneye, known as Bobrisky, is among the notable convicts, alongside Nollywood actress Oluwadarasimi Omoseyin, who received a six-month prison sentence. Pascal Chibuike Okechukwu, also known as Cubana Chief Priest, faced compounded charges and was fined.
The involvement of high-profile individuals reflects the EFCC’s commitment to addressing corruption across different sectors. These cases have garnered public attention, emphasizing the impact of financial crime on society.
Peoplesmind
