The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC has announced the recovery of stolen funds from former ministers and former governors in 2024
The anti-graft agency through its Director of Public Affairs,Wilson Uwujaren, made the revelation during a press briefing in Abuja on Thursday.
Wilson highlighted the commission’s accomplishments in asset recovery and fraud prevention.
He said those indicted for alleged misuse of public funds were former governors Yahaya Bello (Kogi), Abdulfatah Ahmed (Kwara), Willie Obiano (Anambra), and Darius Ishaku (Taraba).
The EFCC charged Bello with mismanaging over N190bn naira, while Ishaku was charged with mismanagement of N27bn.
Meanwhile, Ahmed and his former finance commissioner were charged with N10bn, while Obiano was charged with money laundering and theft of N4bn while in office.
The agency’s Director, revealed that former ministers Saleh Mamman and Olu Agunloye have also been accused of embezzling N33.8bn and $6bn, respectively, from the Mambilla Hydroelectric Power Project.
One of the two cases against Hadi Sirika is an alleged N5.8bn scam.
While speaking, Wilson clarified that 40 bank accounts are being examined and N30bn has been recovered as part of the ongoing investigation into the alleged fraudulent activity of the former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Betta Edu.
The EFCC spokesman emphasised the commitment of the agency’s boss, Ola Olukayede in pursuing those engaged in vote-buying during recent elections and is combating unlawful vote trading.
He also stated that the commission would not accept corruption among its ranks with regard to social media personality Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky, following claims of bribery to dismiss money laundering charges against the crossdresser.
He further said the organisation has made great strides against illicit mining, which have resulted in numerous investigations and arrests.
He reaffirmed the organisation’s dedication to accountability and openness in the fight against corruption in Nigeria noting that it has made progress against currency hoarding, obtaining over 35 convictions, and has reclaimed assets valued at N248.7bn in the last 12 months.
Inclusively, it has also prioritised asset repatriation, sending €5,100 to Spain and $180,300 and 53 cars back to Canada while also returning fourteen properties back to the government of Enugu State domestically.
The EFCC announced, “In Ola Olukoyede’s one year as EFCC Chairman, from October 18, 2023, to October 18, 2024, the Commission has charged four former governors—Yahaya Adoza Bello (Kogi), Abdulfatah Ahmed (Kwara), Willie Obiano (Anambra), and Darius Dickson Ishaku (Taraba)—to court for alleged corruption.
“The Commission under my watch secured 3,455 convictions across all categories of financial crimes and corruption.
“The monetary asset recoveries have been noteworthy as well, with N248,750,049,365.52 recovered in Naira.
“In the same year, the EFCC recorded $105,423,190.39 in foreign currencies, demonstrating a strong focus on asset recovery.
“We have a comprehensive docket of cases that span various sectors of society, including the mining sector.
“Regarding the investigation into the allegations by Bobrisky and VeryDarkman, I am certain that the investigative process will conclude effectively.
“If any misconduct is confirmed, appropriate action will be taken. Throughout my years here, I have witnessed law enforcement personnel being held accountable for professional misconduct.
“On vote trading, the commission has done significant work in preventing both the buying and selling of votes in recent elections, especially in runoff elections.
“This effort aims to deter such behaviour, and I am aware that we have conducted several prosecutions when arrests were made.
“According to the law, it is the responsibility of INEC to prosecute electoral offences. However, we face challenges, and the message is that we must remain vigilant.
“We need to focus on addressing cases and charges against those involved in electoral offences.
“It’s important to note that different agencies have distinct mandates. While the EFCC handles law enforcement, other regulatory bodies have their responsibilities within the ICT ecosystem.
“On former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Betta Edu, when the investigation began, we provided updates on our progress.
“The Chairman mentioned monitoring over 40 accounts, which takes time to review thoroughly. These matters are ongoing.
“A senior government spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, stated that a report was submitted to the President, who acted on it by appointing a new Minister of Humanitarian Affairs. I respect this information and its source.”
