The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has firmly rejected claims by Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, that the agency is being used by political opponents—particularly the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike—to persecute him and members of his administration.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the anti-graft agency described the allegations as “wild and far-fetched,” stressing that the EFCC is an independent, non-partisan institution established to combat economic and financial crimes without fear or favour.
The Commission condemned attempts to portray it as a pliable tool in the hands of political interests, describing such narratives as mischievous and misleading. It also dismissed as derogatory the suggestion that its investigative activities in Bauchi State were influenced by the FCT Minister, insisting that no political office holder has the authority to direct or interfere with its operations.
The EFCC further noted that Governor Mohammed was already standing trial for money laundering at the time he was elected governor, adding that the case was only suspended due to the constitutional immunity attached to his office. The agency queried who allegedly influenced its investigation and prosecution of the governor in 2016.
On the ongoing cases involving officials of the Bauchi State Government, the EFCC said the facts are already before the court and accessible to the public. According to the Commission, a review of the charges would show that the cases are the product of thorough investigations rather than political vendetta, explaining why Governor Mohammed, as the approving authority, was mentioned in the charge.
The EFCC also dismissed claims linking the investigations to terrorism financing as an attempt to deflect attention, stressing that it merely enforces existing laws and would be derelict in its duty if it failed to act where offences are disclosed.
Emphasising the need for public accountability, the Commission accused politicians of hypocrisy for crying persecution when opposition figures are investigated, while remaining silent when members of the ruling party face similar charges. It cited the recent arraignment of a senior ruling party member as evidence of its impartiality.
The EFCC advised Governor Mohammed to concentrate on governance in Bauchi State and allow the Commission to carry out its mandate of sanitising the nation’s financial system.
