By Damilola Adeleke

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has dismissed 27 officers from service for involvement in fraudulent activities and other misconducts. This decision followed recommendations from the Staff Disciplinary Committee and was approved by the Commission’s Chairman, Ola Olukoyede.

In a statement released on Monday, January 6, 2025, the EFCC emphasized its zero-tolerance policy for corruption within its ranks. However, the Commission did not disclose the identities of the dismissed officials or the specifics of their misconduct. This lack of transparency echoes a similar announcement in November 2024, where two other corrupt officials were dismissed without publicizing their details.

Mr. Olukoyede, who assumed the chairmanship in October 2024, has consistently reiterated the need for integrity among EFCC no staff. He had previously mandated all staff to declare their assets, signaling a proactive stance against internal corruption. “We must live above board by setting the pace with good examples,” he stated at the Commission’s headquarters.

The EFCC has faced repeated public criticism for withholding details of corrupt practices among its officials. For example, in a recent case, the Commission announced the recovery of a vast Abuja estate without revealing the owners’ identities. Although court filings linked the property to a former Central Bank Governor, Godwin Emefiele, the lack of official disclosure fueled skepticism.

The EFCC has also warned against impersonators and blackmailers exploiting its name to extort money from suspects. Two individuals were recently charged in Abuja for attempting to defraud a former Nigerian Ports Authority Managing Director by falsely claiming to represent the Commission’s Chairman.Despite these challenges, the EFCC remains resolute in its fight against corruption, both within and outside its organization. The Commission calls on the public to report any suspicious activities involving its officials.