EFCC Fires Back at Bala Mohammed, Dismisses ‘Political Witch-Hunt’ Claims as Baseless

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The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has issued a strongly worded response to allegations by Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, accusing the anti-graft agency of being used by political opponents to persecute him and key officials of his administration.

In a statement, the EFCC described the claims as “wild, far-fetched and entirely baseless,” insisting that the Commission remains an independent, non-partisan institution committed to fighting economic and financial crimes without fear, favour or political influence.

The Commission faulted attempts to link its investigative activities in Bauchi State to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, describing such assertions as mischievous and designed to mislead the public.

“It is derogatory and misleading to ascribe the EFCC’s activities in Bauchi State to the influence of any political office holder,” the agency said, stressing that no individual—regardless of position—has the authority to influence its investigations or prosecutions.

The EFCC further noted that Governor Mohammed failed to acknowledge that he was standing trial for alleged 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.

“If Governor Mohammed is being honest, he should explain who influenced the Commission to investigate him in 2016 and charge him to court,” the statement said, dismissing suggestions of recent political interference.

On the ongoing prosecution involving some officials of the Bauchi State Government, the EFCC stated that the facts of the case have already been presented before a competent court. The Commission urged Nigerians to review the charges, which are publicly accessible, and determine for themselves whether the case is driven by political vendetta or the outcome of detailed and professional investigations.

The agency clarified that Governor Mohammed was mentioned in the charge because he served as the approving authority for the transactions under scrutiny.
Reacting to claims of persecution over issues bordering on terrorism financing, the EFCC described such allegations as an attempt to “cry wolf,” noting that the Commission neither makes the law nor selectively enforces it.

“Where offences punishable under existing laws are established, the EFCC would be failing in its responsibility to act,” it stated.

The Commission also condemned what it described as political hypocrisy, noting that opposition politicians are often quick to allege persecution when investigated, but remain silent when members of the ruling party are arraigned on similar charges.

“Recently, the EFCC arraigned a high-ranking member of the ruling party for alleged corruption, and no claims of persecution were heard from any side,” the agency added.

The EFCC concluded by urging Governor Mohammed to focus on the governance of Bauchi State, while allowing the Commission to carry out its mandate of sanitising Nigeria’s financial system in line with the law and national interest.