EFCC Warns Against Obstructing Officers, Cites Restraint as Not Sign of Weakness

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has issued a stern warning to members of the public against obstructing its operatives from carrying out their lawful duties.

This caution comes in the wake of an incident where Governor of Kogi, Usman Ododo, helped his predecessor, Yahaya Bello, evade arrest by the anti-graft agency.

EFCC operatives had laid siege to the residence of the former Governor on Benghazi Street in Wuse Zone 4, Abuja, in connection with an N84 billion fraud case involving Bello.

The anti-graft agency had also named Bello in an amended money laundering charge filed against Alli Bello, the Chief of Staff to the incumbent Governor of Kogi.

Governor Ododo’s intervention came when he visited the embattled former Governor amidst the heavy security crackdown.

Ododo arrived at Bello’s residence at about 2:30 pm Wednesday, accompanied by several security operatives and youth supporters protesting against the siege to Bello’s home.

In response to the events, the EFCC has warned that it will not tolerate any attempts by individuals or organizations to obstruct its operations.

The Commission stated that it has shown utmost restraint in the face of provocation to avoid a breakdown of law and order, but this should not be seen as a sign of weakness.

The EFCC’s spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, emphasized that Section 38(2)(a(b) of the EFCC Establishment Act makes it an offence to prevent officers of the Commission from carrying out their lawful duties.

He warned that culprits risk a jail term of not less than five years.

The Commission reiterated that it will henceforth not tolerate any attempt by any person or organisation to obstruct its operation and that such will be met with appropriate punitive actions.

This incident highlights the ongoing efforts by the EFCC to combat corruption and financial crimes in Nigeria, while also underscoring the challenges faced by the agency in carrying out its mandate.