The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has dismissed allegations by Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, that the agency is being used by political opponents to target him and officials in his administration.
In a statement posted on its official X account on Friday, the anti-graft agency described the governor’s claims as “wild” and “far-fetched,” stressing that it operates independently and without political influence.
Governor Mohammed had accused the EFCC of acting under the influence of political figures, particularly Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, to intimidate him and his aides.
Responding, the EFCC said: “The commission is non-partisan and discharges its mandate without affection or ill will. To portray it as a pliable agency serving political interests is mischievous and condemnable.”
The agency further stated that no political officeholder has the power to influence its investigations, and reminded the governor that he had previously faced money laundering charges before assuming office, with only constitutional immunity pausing the case.
On the ongoing cases involving Bauchi State officials, the EFCC noted that all facts had been presented in court and urged the public to examine the charge sheets to judge whether the actions were politically motivated.
The commission also defended its link of certain matters to terrorism financing, saying it was enforcing the law and fulfilling its mandate. It criticized opposition figures who claim persecution when faced with accountability, while ignoring similar cases involving ruling party members.
Finally, the EFCC advised Governor Mohammed to focus on governance and allow the agency to continue its efforts to clean Nigeria’s financial system.
