The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has explained that delays in arraigning politically exposed and high-profile suspects stem from the complex process of gathering evidence in such cases.
EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede made the remarks during an interview on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics.
Olukoyede noted that while cybercrime cases can be investigated and prosecuted quickly, corruption cases involving top politicians and intricate financial transactions require extensive investigation before they are ready for court.
“In 48 hours, I can investigate and arraign a cybercriminal. It’s just a matter of accessing devices and evidence, and I’m done. But when it comes to politically exposed persons or high-level corruption, it takes time. I cannot go to court until I am fully prepared,” he said.
He emphasized that the duration of such investigations should not be interpreted as inactivity on the part of the commission.
The EFCC boss also rejected claims that the agency is selective or biased in its anti-graft efforts, asserting that the commission does not target opposition politicians.
Olukoyede explained that legal bottlenecks and cross-border issues such as frozen assets and funds held abroad often slow down prosecutions.
Citing the case involving former Minister of Justice and Attorney-General of the Federation Abubakar Malami, he stressed that the commission’s actions are neither personal nor political.
“If Nigeria is to progress, we must fight corruption without partisanship. That is what I want Nigerians to understand and support,” he added.
