‘It's embarrassing that some of our investigators are accepting bribes’ — EFCC Chairman

The craze and quest for gratification, bribes and other compromises by some of our investigators are becoming too embarrassing

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) Chairman has disclosed that certain investigators within the anti-graft agency are bribed, thereby jeopardizing the efforts made to combat corruption in Nigeria.

This was declared by Olukoyede on Thursday, January 18, 2024, during his New Year's address to EFCC officials at the agency's Abuja headquarters. The Department of Internal Affairs has been instructed to be more ardent in its work and keep an eye on every employee in all of their engagements, according to the EFCC chairman, who called the situation embarrassing for the anti-graft agency.

He issued a warning, saying that such behavior would not be allowed under his direction and that he would not hold back in disciplining any officer who damages the EFCC's reputation. “I need to emphasize again how important it is that we maintain discipline, integrity, and a sense of responsibility in our work,” he stated. The general public has negative opinions about some of our investigators' behavior.”

“The craze and quest for gratification, bribes and other compromises by some of our investigators are becoming too embarrassing and this must not continue. Let me sound a note of warning in this regard. I will not hesitate to wield the big stick against any form of infraction by any staff of the commission.

“The Department of Internal Affairs has been directed to be more ardent in its work and monitor every staff in all their engagements. The image of the commission is too important to be placed on the line by any corrupt officer.”

Olukoyede went on to say that actions were already being taken to enhance the welfare of EFCC employees, stating that, “The new year promises to bring smiles on the faces of staff across all the commands. We will continue to do our best to put all of you at your best. However, to whom much is given, much is expected.”