EFCC Counters Allegations of Impunity, Defends Chairman Olukoyede Against “Campaign of Calumny” by Osuji, Emenike
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has fired back at what it described as a “campaign of calumny” orchestrated by veteran journalist Steve Osuji and former tenant, Ikechi Emenike, aimed at discrediting the Commission and its Executive Chairman, Mr. Ola Olukoyede.
In a strongly worded statement signed by the Commission’s spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, the EFCC described Osuji’s recent opinion piece titled *”EFCC’s Alarming Impunity”* as a “poorly-researched tissue of lies” laced with baseless allegations and personal attacks, particularly targeting Olukoyede.
Oyewale noted that Osuji’s commentary failed to identify any concrete evidence of misconduct by the EFCC boss. “Accusations of integrity deficit and lack of accountability are not only wild but completely off the mark,” he said.
“In what way has Olukoyede fallen short? By recovering over 700 duplexes for the nation? By handling over 50,000 case files in one year? By pushing preventive frameworks that have earned international commendation?”
The EFCC also defended its record of compliance with statutory reporting, debunking claims that it failed to submit its annual report to the National Assembly.
“The Commission has *never* defaulted. These records are verifiable, and the National Assembly is not in Sambisa Forest,” Oyewale stated.
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The Commission further clarified that its asset recovery process is governed strictly by the Proceeds of Crime (Recovery and Management) Act, 2022, stressing that it does not retain recovered funds but transfers proceeds into designated government accounts at the Central Bank.
On the controversial property at No. 6, Aso Drive, Asokoro, the EFCC disclosed that it was part of assets forfeited by former Petroleum Minister, Diezani Alison-Madueke, and that the Federal High Court had granted it possession on March 27, 2025.
The Commission denied any wrongdoing in evicting Emenike, a tenant, insisting the court’s judgment stands.
Oyewale attributed the media attacks to personal interests, noting that Osuji’s intervention appears motivated by Emenike’s failed bid to acquire the forfeited property.
“This naked dance is about House No. 6, Aso Drive,” Oyewale said, describing the media narrative as “mischievous and untenable.”
Highlighting Olukoyede’s achievements, Oyewale recalled that top global law enforcement officials, including former FBI Director Christopher Wray and UK National Crime Agency boss Graeme Biggar, had recently visited Nigeria to commend his leadership and seek deeper collaboration.
He concluded by assuring the public that EFCC operations remain transparent, accountable, and firmly committed to the anti-corruption fight.
