The EFCC has dismissed Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed’s claims of political persecution, stressing its independence and commitment to fighting corruption. The Commission reaffirmed that its investigations are non-partisan and guided strictly by law.

EFCC Dismisses Bala Mohammed’s Allegations, Reaffirms Independence

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has strongly refuted claims made by Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, alleging that the Commission is being used by political opponents, particularly the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, to persecute him and his aides.

In a statement, the EFCC described the governor’s accusations as “wild and far-fetched,” stressing that the Commission is an independent body established to combat economic and financial crimes. It emphasized that its operations are non-partisan and guided strictly by law, not political influence.

EFCC Reaffirms Non-Partisanship

The Commission condemned attempts to portray it as a tool of political interests, calling such claims mischievous and misleading. It noted that no political office holder has the authority to influence its investigations.

The EFCC further reminded Nigerians that Governor Mohammed was previously charged with money laundering in 2016, long before his election as governor. The case, it explained, remains on hold only because of the constitutional immunity attached to his current office.

Ongoing Investigations in Bauchi State

According to the EFCC, charges against some Bauchi State officials are already before the court, and the public can access these records to judge whether the cases stem from vendetta or from thorough investigations. The Commission clarified that Governor Mohammed’s name appears in the charges because of his role as the approving authority in Bauchi State.

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Accountability Over Politics

The EFCC dismissed claims of persecution, particularly regarding terrorism financing, as baseless. It reiterated that its duty is to enforce existing laws and that failing to act on offences would amount to negligence.

The Commission also criticized the hypocrisy of politicians who cry foul when opposition figures are investigated but remain silent when members of the ruling party face similar charges. It pointed to a recent case where a senior ruling party member was arraigned for corruption without any claims of political persecution.

In conclusion, the EFCC urged Governor Bala Mohammed to concentrate on governing Bauchi State rather than making unfounded allegations. The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to “cleaning the financial space of the nation” in line with its constitutional mandate.