EFCC alleges plot to launch smear campaign against commission, chairman

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) says it has uncovered plans by some politicians to sponsor smear campaigns aimed at discrediting the agency and its chairman, Ola Olukoyede.

In a statement by its spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, the commission alleged that certain politicians have enlisted media figures, activists, academics and fugitives abroad to circulate false claims of political bias against the EFCC.

According to the statement, the intention is to undermine the commission’s recent work and create public distrust ahead of the 2027 general elections.

“The goal is to scare the EFCC into silence so it becomes hesitant to investigate politicians for fear of being branded partisan,” the commission said.

The EFCC warned that those involved in the alleged plot are already being monitored and vowed not to be distracted from its duty of strengthening public accountability.

Reaffirming its neutrality, the commission stated that both ruling and opposition politicians facing corruption allegations are being investigated or prosecuted, stressing that it has no alliance with any political party.

The EFCC added that it will not bow to pressure to publish names of politically exposed persons under investigation, insisting that it remains committed to justice “without fear or favour.”