EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede rejects Malami’s persecution claims, detailing major 2025 achievements, recovered assets, and ongoing anti-corruption prosecutions nationwide.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has once again demonstrated its commitment to fighting corruption in Nigeria, as Chairman Ola Olukoyede firmly dismissed allegations of persecution by the immediate past Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mallam Abubakar Malami (SAN).
The EFCC chief described the claims as misleading and warned that spreading such narratives undermines public understanding of ongoing corruption investigations.
Speaking during a national television interview, Olukoyede clarified that the investigation involving Malami predates his appointment as EFCC chairman.
He stressed that the commission’s probe was initiated on the basis of credible evidence, not political or personal motivations.
According to him, it is unfortunate that some Nigerians have embraced the persecution narrative without fully understanding the timeline and nature of the EFCC’s work.
Malami is currently facing trial alongside some members of his family on 16 counts of alleged money laundering involving an estimated ₦8.7 billion.
In response to suggestions that the EFCC is targeting him, Olukoyede said: “There is nothing like persecution or vendetta in this matter.
“This particular case predates my appointment. I did not authorize any proceedings until I was certain the investigation was thorough and legally sound.”
He further addressed rumors suggesting that he had been indicted by a panel led by former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Ayo Salami.
Olukoyede categorically denied these allegations and challenged those making such claims to make the purported report public.
“The EFCC investigation panel cleared me of any wrongdoing. The Presidency at the time also cleared me. All relevant law enforcement agencies have given me a clean bill of health,” he stated.
Throughout his years of service — first as Chief of Staff, then as Secretary of the Commission, and now as Chairman — Olukoyede emphasized that there is no official record implicating him in fraudulent activities.
He stressed that these clarifications are necessary to ensure public confidence in the EFCC, especially as the agency continues to pursue high-profile cases involving influential Nigerians.
Highlighting the EFCC’s achievements under his leadership, Olukoyede revealed that 2025 was a landmark year for the commission, particularly in reviving long-stalled corruption cases.
“One of our biggest wins last year was reopening old cases that many thought were dead.
“Some of these cases involve former governors and ministers, and they are actively being prosecuted in courts across the country,” he explained.
A key part of the EFCC’s strategy has been asset recovery, which has produced tangible results for Nigerians.
Olukoyede cited the recovery of assets in Lokogoma as an example of the commission’s successes. He also highlighted the court-ordered forfeiture of Nok University in Kachia, Kaduna State.
The university, originally built with public funds allegedly misappropriated by a former civil servant, was seized and repurposed by the Federal Government.
It is now the Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia, demonstrating how the EFCC transforms illicitly acquired assets into public institutions for national benefit.
Ola Olukoyede explained that such recoveries send a clear message: the EFCC will pursue accountability regardless of social or political status.
“We are committed to ensuring that corruption does not go unpunished and that stolen assets are returned to the people,” he said.
This commitment underscores the EFCC’s broader mandate of promoting transparency, upholding justice, and strengthening public trust in governance.
In addition to high-profile prosecutions and asset recovery, the EFCC has also been strengthening institutional processes under Olukoyede’s leadership.
Internal review mechanisms, case tracking systems, and enhanced cooperation with other law enforcement agencies have helped the commission improve efficiency and ensure that investigations are thorough.
“We have invested in making sure that every case we handle is backed by solid evidence. This is why even politically exposed individuals are not immune from investigation,” Olukoyede said.
The EFCC chairman also highlighted the agency’s role in recovering stolen public funds from individuals and organizations who had exploited government systems for personal gain.
By converting illegally obtained assets into functional public institutions, the commission has demonstrated that the fight against corruption extends beyond courtroom victories — it also involves restoring resources to the Nigerian people.
Malami’s claims of persecution, according to Olukoyede, have the potential to distract the EFCC from its primary objective.
He warned that narratives suggesting bias or vendetta could weaken public confidence and give the impression that corruption cases are politically motivated.
“The EFCC operates strictly according to the law. Allegations of persecution are baseless and distract from the real work of fighting corruption,” Olukoyede emphasized.
The EFCC’s track record under Olukoyede’s leadership illustrates a renewed focus on accountability, transparency, and systematic investigation of corruption cases.
From revisiting cold cases to recovering billions of naira in misappropriated funds, the agency has made it clear that no one is above the law.
Its operations have targeted not only politically connected figures but also ordinary citizens involved in fraudulent activities, reflecting an inclusive approach to justice.
Looking ahead, Olukoyede affirmed that the EFCC would continue to pursue corruption vigorously while maintaining integrity and fairness in its processes.
The commission is also committed to educating the public about the realities of corruption investigations, dispelling myths, and fostering a culture of ethical governance.
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