The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is under intense scrutiny following a series of thefts by some of its operatives, including missing recovered assets such as cash and gold bars.
In 2024, at least 27 officers were dismissed for misconduct, with ongoing investigations into the theft of high-value items.
The EFCC spokesman, Dele Oyewale, confirmed an internal investigation into allegations involving $400,000, as well as incidents of stolen operational items, including gold bars and cash valued at millions. In the most recent scandal, an officer at the Kaduna zonal office allegedly stole $30,000.
The rising trend of theft within the commission has sparked concern over the lack of safeguards to protect exhibits. Security sources suggest the rising poverty and the temptation posed by easy access to valuable assets may be contributing factors. Calls for stricter internal controls and multiple layers of security at EFCC offices have intensified.
In response to the growing controversy, EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyode has ordered an audit of recovered assets and increased surveillance at zonal offices.
Meanwhile, the EFCC’s night raids have also drawn criticism, with public outrage over alleged misconduct during operations, including a fatal shooting of an EFCC officer in January 2025.
The Centre for Anti-Corruption and Open Leadership has called for urgent reforms within the EFCC to restore public trust, while experts urge better training and stronger oversight to curb corruption within the agency.
As the EFCC faces increasing challenges, experts and critics alike are calling for more thorough background checks, better operational protocols, and a concerted effort to cleanse the system from corrupt practices.
