‘EFCC is afraid of big thieves’

Human rights activist Omoyele Sowore has accused the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) of being “afraid of big thieves.” His claim follows the EFCC’s seizure of a massive estate in Abuja, which the agency did not name the owner.

The estate contains 753 duplexes, and Sowore believes it belongs to former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor Godwin Emefiele. Emefiele is currently facing corruption charges.

On December 2, 2024, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court ruled on the estate. The court confirmed that the property was obtained through unlawful means. As a result, the EFCC was granted final forfeiture of the estate. This marks the EFCC’s largest asset recovery since its creation in 2003.

The estate is located in the Lokogoma District of Abuja, covering 150,500 square meters. It includes 753 duplexes and several apartments. The EFCC sees this seizure as a significant win. It claims the property was seized under Nigeria’s anti-fraud laws.

Sowore’s allegation: EFCC afraid of big thieves

Sowore quickly took to social media to respond to the EFCC’s actions. He accused the agency of shielding powerful individuals. He claimed the EFCC was “afraid of big thieves” and reluctant to name the property’s owner.

On Twitter, Sowore wrote, “The EFCC is doing PR for thieves. They seized 753 duplexes but can’t name the owner.” Sowore’s remarks sparked public debate about the EFCC’s selective approach to justice. He pointed out that the agency often parades smaller criminals but avoids naming influential figures.

Sowore’s criticism is part of a larger narrative about the EFCC’s credibility. Civil society groups have long accused the EFCC of bias. They argue the agency targets ordinary Nigerians while protecting powerful elites.

Many Nigerians are frustrated with the EFCC’s handling of high-profile cases. They believe the agency avoids confronting influential people with corruption charges. Activist Deji Adeyanju shared his concerns. He said, “The EFCC parades small criminals but stays silent on top officials.” Political analyst Chidi Odinkalu agreed. He said, “The EFCC’s actions show a clear double standard.”

Asset forfeiture under Nigerian law

The 753 duplexes were seized under the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud-Related Offenses Act. The EFCC followed Nigeria’s legal framework to take over the estate. The court ruled that the property was linked to unlawful activities.

Emefiele, who served as CBN Governor until 2023, is facing corruption charges. His role in the controversial naira redesign policy has also caused public uproar. The forfeiture of the estate has raised more questions. Critics are asking how such an asset was acquired.

Emefiele’s case has broad political implications. He is a former high-ranking government official. However, questions remain about the source of the funds used to build the estate.

The EFCC’s handling of this case will impact its future actions. If the agency continues to avoid naming powerful figures, it could lose public trust. More people will agree with Sowore that the “EFCC is afraid of big thieves.”

Need for transparency

Sowore’s accusations have sparked calls for greater transparency within the EFCC. Many Nigerians demand that the agency name those behind high-profile corrupt activities.

Critics say transparency is crucial for maintaining trust in the EFCC. Without it, Nigerians will continue to view the agency with skepticism. Activists argue that the EFCC should hold everyone accountable, regardless of their status.

Already, civil society groups have been consistent on urging the EFCC to be more transparent. They insist that the agency must show that it is not “afraid of big thieves.”

Sowore’s accusation resonates with many Nigerians who feel that EFCC is fond of delaying justice for the powerful. His call for accountability is not just about Emefiele, but about ensuring fairness in the fight against corruption.