EFCC Rejects Bala Mohammed’s Claims, Insists Wike Has No Influence Over Investigations

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has firmly dismissed allegations by Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, that the anti-graft agency is being manipulated by political rivals, particularly the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, to target him and members of his administration.

In a strongly worded statement, the EFCC described the claims as “wild, far-fetched, mischievous and condemnable,” stressing that it remains a professional, independent institution guided strictly by the law, not political interests.

EFCC Rejects Political Interference Claims

According to the Commission, attempts to portray it as a tool in the hands of any political figure are misleading and unfair to its mandate. The EFCC maintained that no political office holder, including the FCT Minister, has the authority to influence its investigative processes.

Akahi News gathered that the agency emphasised that its operations in Bauchi State were based strictly on evidence and due process, not political rivalry or vendetta.

“It is important to state that no political office holder is in a position to influence the investigative activities of the Commission,” the EFCC stated, dismissing suggestions that its actions were orchestrated by external forces.

EFCC Recalls Past Legal Proceedings Against Bala Mohammed

The Commission further noted that Governor Mohammed had previously been charged with money laundering before assuming office in 2019, adding that his prosecution was only halted due to the constitutional immunity attached to his position as a sitting governor.

According to the EFCC, the case history raises critical questions about the credibility of claims that current investigations are politically motivated.

“Who influenced the Commission to investigate and charge him in 2016?” the agency queried, suggesting that the ongoing allegations were attempts to distract public attention.

Ongoing Cases and Public Accountability

On the ongoing cases involving some Bauchi State government officials, the EFCC said the matters are already before competent courts and accessible to the public. The agency stressed that Nigerians are free to assess whether the cases are rooted in facts or driven by malice.

The anti-graft body also dismissed claims that it was fabricating terrorism financing allegations, stressing that it merely enforces existing laws and would be negligent if it ignored offences defined under Nigerian statutes.

‘Selective Outrage’ Among Politicians – EFCC

In a pointed remark, the Commission accused some politicians of hypocrisy, noting that allegations of persecution often surface only when investigations involve opposition figures.

The EFCC cited recent cases where members of the ruling party were arraigned without claims of persecution, arguing that accountability should not be politicised.

“Recently, the Commission arraigned a ranking member of the ruling party for alleged corruption, and no allegation of persecution was raised,” the statement noted.

Call for Focus on Governance

The EFCC advised Governor Mohammed to prioritise governance and allow anti-corruption institutions to function without intimidation or political pressure. It reiterated its commitment to sanitising Nigeria’s financial system in the interest of transparency and public trust.

According to Naija News, the Commission’s response follows rising political tensions linked to investigations involving key political actors, a development that continues to shape Nigeria’s evolving anti-corruption discourse.

As Akahi News gathered, the unfolding exchange underscores the persistent tension between politics and accountability in Nigeria’s democratic space, raising broader questions about institutional independence and the rule of law.

Akahi News www.akahinews.org