The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has described the recent claims of politicisation as a deliberate attempt by some political actors to shield themselves from corruption investigations.
This is as the anti-graft agency dismissed allegations that it is being weaponised against opposition politicians.
In a statement by its spokesman, Dele Oyewale, the anti-graft agency stated that accusations ranging from ‘weaponisation of the EFCC’ to ‘erosion of its independence’ and ‘persecution of opposition politicians’ amount to a misrepresentation of its statutory responsibilities and a distraction from its core mandate of tackling economic and financial crimes.
Oyewale maintained that the Commission remains guided strictly by the provisions of its Establishment Act and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The Commission said its mandate is clear and non-negotiable; to investigate and prosecute economic and financial crimes without regard to political affiliation, ethnicity, religion or status, except where constitutional immunity applies to serving political office holders.
“The Commission’s weapon is its Establishment Act, which provides the ground norm of its activities.
“Strong members of the ruling party such as former governors, ministers and others not publicly known are sharing tables with a motley number of opposition politicians and other suspects,” the EFCC said.
You’re seeking immunity under guise of persecution – EFCC fires back at opposition
