LAGOS, The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has launched investigations into 18 sitting governors across Nigeria for alleged financial misconduct.
EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, made the disclosure during a public enlightenment programme held in Lagos, which focused on the abuse and mishandling of the naira, as well as remittance services.
Olukoyede emphasized that the Commission does not wait for public officials to leave office before opening cases against them. “We don’t have to wait until governors complete their terms before beginning investigations. We conduct our work quietly and take action once they are no longer shielded by constitutional immunity,” he said.
In illustrating the extent of alleged abuse by former officials, the EFCC chairman recounted an incident involving a former governor who fled Nigeria to avoid prosecution. According to Olukoyede, the ex-governor threw a lavish birthday party in a UK hotel and allegedly sprayed pound sterling notes in £10 and £50 denominations. His behavior was so erratic that hotel staff reportedly contacted emergency services, suspecting a mental health issue.
The EFCC’s investigations reflect its continued commitment to fighting corruption in public service. While the identities of the governors under investigation have not been disclosed, the development underscores the agency’s resolve to pursue accountability, even at the highest levels of government.
The outcomes of these investigations are expected to shape public discourse around transparency and the fight against financial crimes in Nigeria.
Leave a comment