The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has distanced itself from the actions of one of its dismissed staff members, Olakunle Alex Folarin, who recently appeared on a matchmaking programme hosted on the social media platforms of comedian Lege Miami.
In a statement released on Monday on the EFCC’s official facebook page, the anti-graft agency said it “condemns in the strongest terms” Folarin’s appearance, warning the public not to associate his conduct with the Commission.
According to the EFCC, Folarin was a driver attached to its Ibadan Zonal Directorate. He was dismissed from service after investigations revealed that he gained employment with forged certificates.
The Commission explained that the disciplinary process that led to his dismissal was thorough and followed all due procedures. His exit, it said, was part of an ongoing effort to rid the EFCC of dishonest or unqualified personnel.
Despite being formally dismissed, Folarin allegedly held on to certain items belonging to the EFCC, including an official identity card. This, the Commission stressed, is a violation of established rules that require dismissed staff to surrender all property of the organisation immediately.
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The Executive Chairman of the EFCC, Mr. Ola Olukoyede, has since ordered Folarin’s arrest for having these items. The Commission added that steps are already being taken to recover every EFCC property unlawfully retained by him.
The EFCC urged members of the public to exercise caution and avoid linking Folarin’s post-dismissal activities to the Commission. It stressed that his appearance on a matchmaking show, or any other personal venture he may undertake, has no connection to the agency’s work or image.
“The public is strongly advised not to be misled into thinking that his actions or representations reflect the EFCC,” the statement read.
The development follows clips of Folarin’s appearance on a matchmaking programme hosted by entertainer Lege Miami. In the video, Folarin allegedly introduced himself as an EFCC officer, a claim that quickly went viral and sparked public debate.
Many viewers, shocked by his introduction, assumed that the anti-graft agency had authorised or sanctioned his participation. The Commission’s statement, however, made it clear that this was not the case.
Observers say the EFCC’s swift response underscores its concern about protecting its institutional image. With the agency at the forefront of Nigeria’s anti-corruption fight, maintaining credibility and discipline among staff remains central to its operations.
A senior official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the Commission treats cases of misconduct with utmost seriousness. “Once you compromise the integrity of the organisation, you cannot remain in the system,” the official said. “That is why the Chairman himself is taking this matter personally.”
This incident highlights broader issues facing government agencies in Nigeria, including the need for strict vetting processes in recruitment and stronger enforcement of disciplinary measures after staff exit.
Analysts argue that cases like Folarin’s could erode public trust if not addressed firmly. By moving quickly to disown him and order his arrest, the anti-graft hopes to send a clear signal that misconduct, past or present, will not be tolerated.
For the anti-graft agency, the case of Olakunle Alex Folarin serves as a reminder of the importance of safeguarding its reputation. The agency insists that its fight against corruption will not be derailed by the actions of former staff members acting outside the law.
As the investigation into Folarin’s possession of EFCC property continues, the Commission has vowed to update the public on the steps being taken.
