Ola Olukoyede, Chairman of Nigeria’s Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has publicly vowed to resign if former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello is not prosecuted for alleged corruption. Olukoyede’s threat underscores mounting pressure on the EFCC to hold high-profile politicians accountable amid widespread concerns about selective enforcement and political interference.
Yahaya Bello has been accused of money laundering involving over ₦80 billion during his tenure as governor. Despite being declared wanted by the EFCC in April 2024, Bello voluntarily appeared at the EFCC office in September 2024 but was neither arrested nor interrogated, sparking outrage and accusations of incompetence and ulterior motives within the commission.
Civil society groups like the Campaign for Democracy (CD) and the Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) have criticized EFCC’s handling of the case, calling for Olukoyede’s removal and condemning the agency’s failure to act decisively. The controversy intensified after armed personnel reportedly raided Bello’s official residence the same night he visited the EFCC, raising questions about the commission’s strategy and respect for due process.
Social media critics have labeled Olukoyede “incompetent” and a “clown” for failing to arrest Bello despite the high-profile allegations. The EFCC chairman’s resignation threat is seen by some as a bid to restore credibility to the anti-corruption fight, but skepticism remains given the commission’s past actions.
As of April 29, 2025, Olukoyede’s ultimatum has heightened public scrutiny on the EFCC’s commitment to prosecuting powerful figures and combating corruption in Nigeria’s political elite.