The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has denied allegations that its operations in Ekiti State are negatively affecting legitimate businesses, insisting that its mission is to create a secured environment where lawful enterprises can flourish.
According to a report, the anti-graft agency also rejected claims that its operatives harass or intimidate residents, maintaining that all investigations and arrests are carried out professionally and in line with established operational guidelines.
Some owners of lounges, hotels and restaurants had expressed concerns over declining patronage, alleging that the EFCC’s activities were discouraging customers.
However, speaking in an exclusive interview, the EFCC’s Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, dismissed the allegations, stating that the Commission does not carry out arbitrary night operations or engage in harassment.
He explained that the agency’s officers are trained professionals who strictly adhere to standard operating procedures in the discharge of their duties.
Oyewale further stressed that genuine business owners and investors have nothing to fear, noting that the EFCC’s core responsibility is to combat corruption, fraud, money laundering and other financial crimes that threaten economic growth.
According to him, the Commission’s presence in Ekiti is aimed at eliminating criminal activities that hinder legitimate businesses and creating a safer environment for investors to operate with confidence.
He also urged residents to ignore misinformation capable of creating unnecessary panic, assuring the public that the EFCC will continue to carry out its constitutional responsibilities with fairness, professionalism and respect for the rule of law.
The statement comes amid public discussions in Ekiti over reports that some suspected internet fraudsters are leaving the state following the establishment of the EFCC’s presence.
