- ‘EFCC Not Witch Hunting Opposition’ – Olukoyede Tells Media
- He criticises media for framing arrests as politically motivated
- Says EFCC remains committed to non-partisan anti-corruption enforcement
The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Ola Olukoyede, has called on media practitioners in Nigeria to uphold editorial integrity and embrace responsible journalism in support of the country’s fight against corruption and financial crimes.
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EKO HOT BLOG reports that Olukoyede made the appeal on Thursday in Abuja while delivering a goodwill message at the “VON Forum 2025,” themed “51 Years of Nigeria’s Role in Deepening Democratic Stability in ECOWAS,” organised by Voice of Nigeria in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation.
He criticised what he described as misleading and premature reporting by sections of the media, citing a recent arrest involving a politically exposed person suspected of involvement in the disappearance of about $35 million earmarked for the establishment of a refinery.
According to him, some media reports the following day framed the operation as politically motivated rather than focusing on the substance of the allegations.
“The reportage that broke out in the newspapers the following day was ‘EFCC witch-hunts opposition,’ without taking time to look at the facts that necessitated the arrest,” he said.
Olukoyede insisted that the Commission’s operations remain independent and free from partisan influence, stressing that the agency continues to record significant progress in its anti-corruption mandate.
He also urged Nigerians, especially journalists, to support ongoing anti-corruption efforts by ensuring balanced and factual reporting.
“Let us work together for the stability of this country and one of the best methods is through the media. Let our reporting be responsible,” he said.
He further referenced recovered assets used for public infrastructure, noting that some facilities, including the Voice of Nigeria building, were proceeds of crime recovered from former government officials, as evidence of the success of anti-corruption efforts.
“When I arraign members of the ruling party, nobody makes noise, but the moment I see somebody who belongs to the other side that stole money and take him to court, all hell will break loose. I want to believe that you are raising ethical standards to reinforce editorial integrity,” he added.
