EFCC Investigating 18 Nigerian Governors: A Deep Dive into Anti-Graft Efforts
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, recently revealed a significant development in Nigeria's fight against corruption: the anti-graft agency is currently investigating 18 of Nigeria's 36 sitting state governors. This disclosure was made during a public sensitization program held in Lagos on Friday, July 19, 2025, an event primarily focused on addressing the widespread abuse and mutilation of the Nigerian Naira.
Key Details of the Investigation:
Scope of Probe: Exactly half of Nigeria's incumbent state governors are under the EFCC's scrutiny.
Nature of Allegations: While specific charges against individual governors remain undisclosed, EFCC investigations typically encompass a range of financial crimes. These often include allegations of financial infractions, corruption, money laundering, diversion of public funds, criminal breach of trust, and fraud. The context of Olukoyede's statement, made during a discussion on Naira abuse, strongly suggests financial misconduct as the underlying reason for these probes.
Immunity and Future Action: Olukoyede clarified that while the EFCC has the authority to initiate and conduct investigations into serving governors (a power reinforced by a Supreme Court ruling), full prosecution and further legal action can only proceed once their tenures expire and they lose their constitutional immunity.
Illustrative Precedent: The EFCC Chairman cited a notable past case to underscore the commission's commitment to pursuing cases beyond a governor's term. He recounted an incident involving a former governor who, already under EFCC investigation while in office, reportedly fled to the United Kingdom immediately after leaving power to evade arrest. This individual was later arrested in the UK for allegedly spraying substantial amounts of Pounds Sterling at a birthday party, an event that drew the attention of the Metropolitan Police. This anecdote serves to highlight the EFCC's resolve to ensure accountability even after public officials leave office.
Confidentiality of Investigations: In line with standard investigative procedures and to uphold the presumption of innocence, the EFCC Chairman did not disclose the names of the governors under investigation or release further details about the ongoing probes.
Strengthened Legal Mandate: A pivotal Supreme Court judgment on November 15, 2024, significantly bolstered the EFCC's capabilities. This landmark ruling dismissed a suit filed by 19 state governors who had challenged the constitutionality of anti-corruption agencies like the EFCC. The Supreme Court's decision affirmed the EFCC's inherent competence to investigate financial activities and public funds at both state and local government levels, empowering the commission to intensify its fight against economic and financial crimes.
This latest revelation from the EFCC underscores a resolute effort to tackle corruption at the state level, signaling that more high-profile cases are likely to emerge once the involved governors conclude their terms in office.
I'm Aisha shehu
Talksocialtalka News
