How EFCC investigated Jerry Eze — Olukoyede

The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Ola Olukoyede, has disclosed that the agency carried out a six-month investigation into the founder of Streams of Joy International, Jerry Eze, over suspected money laundering before eventually clearing him of any wrongdoing.

Olukoyede made this known on Wednesday while speaking at the Jerry Eze Foundation Business Grant Award Ceremony in Abuja.

According to him, the probe was initiated following intelligence reports and petitions that raised concerns about significant inflows of foreign currencies into the cleric’s domiciliary account.

He explained that the volume and sources of the funds—which reportedly came from countries including Colombia, the United States, Sri Lanka, and Togo—prompted closer scrutiny by the commission.

The EFCC boss said investigators conducted a thorough review of the pastor’s financial records before inviting him for questioning.

However, after analysing the findings and engaging directly with Eze, the commission found no evidence of financial misconduct.

Olukoyede stated that the cleric was invited not for further interrogation but to be commended, noting that the agency had already completed its investigation and was satisfied with the legitimacy of the transactions.

He added that while the EFCC remains committed to investigating suspicious financial activities, it also has a duty to acknowledge individuals who demonstrate transparency and integrity.

The EFCC chairman, however, expressed concern over the involvement of some religious leaders in fraudulent activities, revealing that a number of clerics have previously been investigated and convicted.

He urged religious institutions to uphold ethical standards, stressing that places of worship should not be used as fronts for illicit dealings.