News

EFCC Probes 18 Sitting Governors, Chairman Reveals

Published by Akinwale Fakinlede on July 20th, 2025.

Date: July 20, 2025

The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Ola Olukoyede, has disclosed that no fewer than 18 serving state governors are currently under investigation for various financial crimes. This revelation marks one of the boldest stances yet taken by Nigeria’s top anti-graft agency in recent years.

Speaking during a high-level anti-corruption summit in Abuja on Friday, Olukoyede said the EFCC is intensifying its efforts to combat systemic corruption at the highest levels of government, including executive positions within state administrations.

“We are currently investigating 18 governors. These are not former governors, but sitting ones,” Olukoyede stated, drawing audible reactions from the audience. “We are not here to play politics; we are here to clean up the system.”

While he declined to name the governors involved due to ongoing investigations, the EFCC boss assured that the Commission is building watertight cases to ensure successful prosecutions. He emphasized that the agency’s resolve remains rooted in professionalism, due process, and transparency.

A Renewed Anti-Corruption Drive

Since assuming office, Olukoyede has made clear his intention to restore credibility to the EFCC, which has faced criticism in the past for perceived political bias and selective prosecution. Under his leadership, the Commission has reopened several dormant cases and launched fresh probes into allegations of money laundering, contract fraud, and misappropriation of public funds.

“We are guided by facts and evidence, not sentiments. If we have reasons to believe that public funds are being stolen, we will follow the trail, regardless of whose ox is gored,” he added.

Public Reaction and Political Tension

The EFCC chairman’s statement has sparked immediate reactions across the political landscape, with civil society groups applauding the Commission’s courage. However, it has also stirred tension among state leaders, some of whom privately expressed concern over the “lack of specifics” in the public announcement.

A senior government source who requested anonymity noted, “This could be a wake-up call to those in office to audit their own processes. No one wants to be dragged into a corruption scandal, especially in a pre-election period.”

Legal and Institutional Support

Legal experts have urged the EFCC to pursue its investigations diligently while respecting the constitutional rights of those under scrutiny. Human rights lawyer, Barr. Ladi Ahmed, said:

“Governors enjoy immunity from prosecution under Section 308 of the Constitution, but they can still be investigated. The EFCC must ensure that its actions are not seen as politically motivated.”

Meanwhile, the Commission has called on citizens to support the anti-corruption war by reporting suspicious financial activities and promoting transparency at all levels of governance.

Looking Ahead

With 2026 general elections approaching and political alliances shifting, the EFCC’s investigations could play a major role in shaping the public perception of accountability in governance. For now, the eyes of the nation remain fixed on the anti-graft agency as it dares to confront some of the most powerful figures in Nigerian politics.