By Erewunmi Peace

The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has clarified that investigations involving former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN), began before his assumption of office.

Olukoyede made this known while responding to allegations that the probe against Malami was politically motivated or initiated under his leadership. According to him, the case files concerning the former minister were already in existence before he was appointed EFCC chairman.

He explained that upon taking office, he merely inherited ongoing investigations and has continued to handle them in line with the commission’s mandate and established procedures.

“The investigation did not start with me. I met it on ground,” Olukoyede stated, stressing that the EFCC remains committed to professionalism, fairness, and due process in carrying out its responsibilities.

The EFCC chairman further dismissed claims of witch-hunting, noting that the anti-graft agency does not operate based on personal interests or political considerations, but on evidence and the rule of law.

Malami, who served as Attorney-General under the previous administration, has been linked to allegations surrounding financial impropriety and abuse of office, which the EFCC says are still under investigation.

Olukoyede reaffirmed the commission’s determination to pursue all corruption cases objectively, regardless of the individuals involved, adding that no one is above the law.