Reported by: Ime Richard Aondofa | Edited by: Henry Owen
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has condemned a false story published by Sahara Reporters with the headline: “DSS Abducts Lawyer Moses Oddiri in Lagos After Petition on Diversion Of Funds By EFCC Chairman.”
The story claimed that Oddiri was arrested on the orders of the EFCC Chairman over allegations that he diverted funds meant for a community he advocates for. The EFCC describes this report as false and designed to damage its reputation.
The issue involves the Niger Delta Host Community Trust Fund. This fund was paid into two official community benefit trust accounts, as required by Nigerian law through the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).
Oddiri allegedly wanted the money paid into his own NGO’s account, which would have broken the rules set by the PIA and international guidelines from OPEC. The EFCC explains that, after investigation into delays in paying the funds to two communities in Delta State, they uncovered defaulting companies. As a result, the funds were properly paid in 2024 into the designated community accounts.
Since then, Oddiri has been campaigning online, claiming the money was not paid into his NGO account. However, the EFCC says these claims are false and motivated by self-interest.
To ensure transparency and proper use of the funds, the EFCC has held meetings with community leaders, regulators, and oil companies in Lagos and Abuja. During these meetings, the EFCC Chairman emphasized that the agency’s job is to prevent funds from being diverted and to ensure they are used for real community development projects like electricity and clean water.
Oddiri’s false accusations are not new. He has previously spread similar unfounded claims on social media and Sahara Reporters. In response, the EFCC is taking legal action against Sahara Reporters for publishing this malicious story. Similar false claims have also been made against Heritage Energy Operational Services Ltd.
Community leaders from the affected areas are aware of Oddiri’s motives and can be contacted for verification. The EFCC has already initiated legal suits against Oddiri and Heritage Energy, and has filed a petition with the Department of State Security (DSS).
The EFCC assures the public that it will not be intimidated or blackmailed. It remains committed to following the law and serving the best interests of Nigeria. The commission also urges the media to report responsibly and avoid spreading false information that can cause prejudice and damage.
📩 Stone Reporters News | 🌍 stonereportersnews.com
✉️ info@stonereportersnews.com | 📘 Facebook: Stone Reporters | 🐦 X (Twitter): @StoneReportNew | 📸 Instagram: @stonereportersnews
Add comment
Comments