The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) announced on Thursday that it is currently investigating several bank executives for various offenses. The commission has also submitted a preliminary report regarding former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Betta Edu, to President Bola Tinubu.
Wilson Uwajaren, the Director of Public Affairs for the EFCC, revealed that approximately five bank executives are currently serving jail terms in custodial facilities across the country. While he did not disclose the names of the executives under investigation, he emphasized that the banking sector has not been neglected in the commission’s efforts over the past year. “It’s just for us to look back and realize that EFCC has never shifted focus from any sector,” Uwajaren stated.
He highlighted past investigations, noting that between 2009 and 2011, at least five bank executives faced scrutiny and subsequently served jail terms. “They are not politicians. Bank MDs are not immune to investigations or prosecution by the EFCC,” he added. The EFCC is committed to transparency but cannot disclose specific names until investigations are concluded.
Regarding the investigation into Betta Edu, Uwajaren mentioned, “I don’t know the outcome. But I believe that we have submitted a preliminary report to the president. And I believe that we are still on the matter.” He indicated that the agency is closely monitoring around 140 bank accounts as part of their investigations, emphasizing the thoroughness required in such cases.
In a related development, Uwajaren addressed allegations made by controversial crossdresser Idris Okuneye, known as Bobrisky. Bobrisky allegedly claimed to have bribed EFCC officers with N15 million to drop money laundering charges against him. Although the EFCC has denied these claims, Uwajaren noted that the agency has initiated a committee to investigate the matter.
“There is a portion of the EFCC Act that states if you give false information, you can be tried,” Uwajaren explained. He cautioned that making false allegations against the agency could lead to further charges. “I don’t want to preempt the panel investigating the matter. Once we are through with the investigation, we will definitely brief you on the outcome.”
Highlighting the achievements of the EFCC under Chairman Ola Olukoyede, Uwajaren reported that the commission has recovered a total of ₦248 billion. He detailed the prosecution of four former governors—Yahaya Bello (Kogi), Abdulfatah Ahmed (Kwara), Willie Obiano (Anambra), and Darius Dickson Ishaku (Taraba)—for alleged corruption.
Additionally, two former ministers of power, Saleh Mamman and Olu Agunloye, are facing prosecution, along with former aviation minister Hadi Sirika. Uwajaren noted that in the past year, the EFCC secured 3,455 convictions across various categories of financial crimes and corruption.
Under Olukoyede’s leadership, the EFCC has also recorded significant financial recoveries in multiple currencies, including over $105 million and £53,000. “Also in the one year of Olukoyede’s leadership, more than 35 were convicted for Naira abuse,” he stated, showcasing the commission’s extensive efforts to combat corruption.
Among those convicted, Uwajaren mentioned high-profile cases, including Idris Okuneye (Bobrisky) and Nollywood actress Oluwadarasimi Omoseyin, both of whom received six-month prison sentences. He also referenced Pascal Chibuike Okechukwu, popularly known as Cubana Chief Priest, who faced charges that were compounded with fines.
