We Are Not Under Pressure From Presidency – EFCC

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) says it is not influenced by the presidency before deciding on which case to investigate or take to court.

This was contained in a statement signed by Mr. Femi Babafemi, Head of Media and Publicity of the Commission and made available to newsmen, yesterday.

It said the clarification became necessary following persistent insinuations in the media that the anti-graft agency had come under pressure from the presidency to prevent investigations or trial of some people believed to be close to government.

“We wish to state emphatically that these insinuations are mere fabrications that have no root in reality. The Commission and its leadership have enjoyed and continue to receive enormous support from the presidency.

 “This is an indication of the present administration’s commitment to the war against graft in our country and should therefore not be interpreted to mean that the EFCC is under the influence of the presidency in the pursuit of its statutory responsibilities,” it said.

It also stated that the commission found it curious when accused persons attributed their investigation or prosecution to their political foes without addressing the substance of their case or the allegations for which they were being investigated or charged.

“In the same manner, we find it curious when some insinuate that the EFCC is under pressure from the presidency to drop charges against some accused persons or give some others soft landing.

“Contrary to these claims, the administration of President Goodluck Jonathan has been fair to the commission and has at no time interfered in its statutory duties. We are strictly guided in our decisions by the facts of a matter and not by any pressure from anywhere.

“As a result, we urge members of the public to disregard these insinuations as the EFCC will continue to function under the dictates of the law and not from any other quarter,” the statement added.