Nigeria Oba of Benin Blasts EFCC: Accuses Agency of Aiding Corruption

Oba of Benin accuses EFCC officials of aiding corruption and claims evidence against palace officials was ignored despite fraud allegations. Calls out predecessor's lapses.

In a scathing attack, the Oba of Benin, Ewuare II, has accused officials of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Nigeria's anti-graft agency, of complicity in aiding corruption and crimes in the country. The revered monarch made these damning allegations when the new Benin Zonal Director of EFCC, Effa Okim, visited him at his palace on Monday, May 20, 2024.

Narrating a case involving unnamed former palace officials, the Oba recalled how the accused were left off the hook despite hard evidence of fraud presented against them by the palace. The officials, who were arrested for fraud and handed over to the EFCC in Benin for investigation and prosecution, were later released after some EFCC operatives allegedly mishandled the case, the monarch claimed.

Expressing shock at the anti-graft commission's alleged actions, Oba Ewuare II tasked the EFCC to fight crime without fear or favor while pointing out the gray areas that exist in their operations. "No matter how much you try to support the EFCC from the palace, it is very difficult because they seem to listen to other parties. What I have been told is that they take instructions from the highest bidder," he said.

The Oba also expressed dissatisfaction with the EFCC's former leadership, stating, "I was not happy about certain things that happened with your predecessor." He recounted writing a letter and sending an emissary to the then-chairman regarding certain elements in Edo State, particularly the palace but claimed his efforts were met with negative reports. However, the monarch expressed hope for the newly appointed EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, stating that he is "destined for greatness" if he continues to demonstrate fidelity to his duties.

The Oba's scathing allegations have raised concerns about the integrity of the EFCC's operations and the potential for corruption within its ranks. As the agency tasked with combating financial crimes and corruption in Nigeria, these accusations strike at the heart of its credibility and mandate.