Nigeria: The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is currently investigating an alleged N7.5
By Zuleihat Owuiye, Mamos Nigeria
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is currently investigating an alleged N7.5 billion fraud involving 10 senior officers of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and 10 contractors. The EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, sent a letter to the NSCDC Commandant General, inviting the officers for questioning. The officers are scheduled to be interrogated by the EFCC from May 2, 2024, onwards.
According to sources, the alleged fraud is linked to several contractors and the money has been traced to some Bureau de Change operators, through whom the senior NSCDC officers allegedly laundered the funds. The EFCC has been conducting a thorough investigation and has already recovered approximately N1 billion as a result of the contractors’ statements. It was discovered that payments were made to a total of 20 contractors, with three major contractors receiving N2 billion each. The contractors have been interrogated, except for one woman who has been avoiding questioning. The woman received over N1 billion, which was later converted to US dollars.
In addition to the investigation, it has been revealed that NSCDC staff members were underpaid for the recently-concluded elections. The staff members claim that they were paid less compared to staff members at other sister agencies. The EFCC is continuing its efforts to uncover the truth behind the alleged fraud and bring those involved to justice.
The NSCDC has handed over the senior officers to the EFCC for interrogation on the order of the NSCDC Commandant General. The EFCC Chairman had previously written a letter to the NSCDC CG, requesting the release of the officers. Both the EFCC spokesperson and the NSCDC spokesperson were unavailable for comment at the time of reporting.
The investigation into the alleged fraud reflects the commitment of the EFCC to fight corruption and ensure accountability in government agencies. The recovery of funds and the questioning of the officers and contractors involved are significant steps towards achieving justice and preventing future fraudulent activities. The EFCC will continue to carry out its mandate to protect the public interest and uphold the rule of law.
