By Olatunbosun Obafemi
In a video message posted on June 4, 2025, the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, issued a direct and forceful defense of the agency’s independence, vowing to pursue financial crimes regardless of political affiliation.
The nearly three-minute clip, shared on the EFCC’s official X (formerly Twitter) account, comes amid rising public criticism over perceived bias in the agency’s operations.
Speaking from his office, flanked by the Nigerian and EFCC flags, Olukoyede—dressed in a navy-blue suit and pink tie—declared: “If we have reasonable suspicion, we will come after you, regardless.” He stressed that his mandate remains apolitical and untainted by presidential influence. “If you are APC and you steal money, you will face questions. If you are PDP or Labour Party and you steal money, you will face questions,” he said.
The EFCC chief cited ongoing investigations of “three senators” from the ruling APC to illustrate the agency’s reach, even against allies of President Bola Tinubu. He also underscored that only sitting presidents and governors enjoy constitutional immunity: “Let the noise be louder. Nobody else has immunity.”
Olukoyede’s remarks, however, met fierce online backlash. Many users questioned the EFCC’s silence on high-profile figures such as former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello and ex-militant leader Government Ekpemupolo (Tompolo), accusing the agency of selective enforcement. “Are you even self-aware?” one user asked. “Your organization has lost credibility,” another wrote.
Despite the tough rhetoric, Olukoyede’s video appears to be both a declaration of intent and an attempt at damage control, as public trust in the EFCC continues to erode in the face of political controversies.
