Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
Abuja, Nigeria — The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has robustly defended its use of force during arrests, asserting that its operational tactics are legally sanctioned and consistent with international norms. The agency’s position was articulated by EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede during an interview on Channels Television’s “Sunday Politics” programme, where he addressed public criticism over recent enforcement methods.
Responding to concerns that the commission’s tactics — particularly in arrests involving suspected cyber criminals — are unprofessional or heavy‑handed, Olukoyede emphasised that the EFCC’s actions are grounded in Nigerian law and established global practices. “Look, if I had to break down a door for me to effect an arrest, I would do that,” he said, comparing EFCC operations to similar practices by international counterparts such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in the United States and the National Crime Agency (NCA) in the United Kingdom. “So why is our law different?” he asked.
The chairman rejected claims that the agency’s conduct falls short of international standards, maintaining that the EFCC has earned recognition and respect abroad. In support of this point, Olukoyede recounted official engagements with foreign law enforcement, including a visit from the Director of the FBI, whom he said acknowledged the commission’s work. “If foreigners acknowledge what we do, what about Nigerians?” he challenged, urging citizens to appreciate and back local institutions.
Olukoyede’s remarks come amid sustained criticism from some civil society groups, legal practitioners and rights advocates who argue that certain high‑profile arrests — especially involving suspected internet fraudsters and cybercrime syndicates — have sometimes appeared aggressive or at odds with expectations of professionalism. However, the EFCC boss insisted that such measures are necessary and lawful when existing statutes empower enforcement agents to act decisively to prevent flight or destruction of evidence.
Highlighting the statutory framework that governs EFCC operations, Olukoyede explained that the commission is empowered under Nigerian law to make arrests without a warrant under specific conditions. “The law — the badge I carry — is my warrant to arrest anytime, any day, under the conditions of the law,” he stated, underscoring his view that such authority is not arbitrary but anchored in legal provisions intended to support anti‑crime enforcement.
While acknowledging that no institution is perfect, Olukoyede appealed for public cooperation and understanding, noting the complexity of combating economic and financial crimes in a globalised environment. He described the EFCC’s work as “essential to national development” and urged Nigerians to support the commission’s efforts rather than focus solely on its shortcomings. “We have our shortcomings, but with our modest achievements, Nigerians should support us because what we do is for Nigeria,” he said.
Throughout the interview, Olukoyede reiterated the importance of robust and proactive enforcement in tackling sophisticated financial crime, which often involves transnational networks and high‑tech schemes. He framed the agency’s operational posture as necessary to keep pace with evolving criminal tactics, arguing that swift, intelligence‑driven action is critical to preserving the integrity of investigations and ensuring successful prosecution.
The EFCC’s defence comes at a time of heightened public debate over law enforcement practices, civil liberties and institutional accountability in Nigeria. Supporters of the commission’s approach say that the nature of economic and financial crimes — especially cybercrime, fraud and money‑laundering — often necessitates assertive tactics to prevent suspects from absconding or destroying evidence. Critics, however, have called for enhanced transparency, strict adherence to due process, and greater respect for human rights in all enforcement actions.
As Olukoyede continues to lead Nigeria’s premier anti‑graft agency, his comments reflect a broader effort to balance assertive crime‑fighting strategies with legal and ethical considerations, while seeking to build trust and cooperation between the EFCC and the public it serves.
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