The Senate has expressed its satisfaction with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), commending its consistent professionalism, dedication, and notable achievements in fighting financial crimes, particularly its record performance in 2024. In light of this, the Senate also instructed its relevant committees to continue providing effective oversight and legislative support to strengthen the EFCC and other anti-corruption bodies. Furthermore, the Red Chamber praised President Bola Tinubu for his strategic support and commitment to anti-corruption efforts in Nigeria, citing his appointment of capable EFCC leadership and provision of sufficient funding.
The Senate’s commendation followed a motion sponsored by Senator Emmanuel Udende (APC Benue North East), who presented the following statistics for 2024: 15,724 petitions received; 12,928 case files opened; 5,008 cases filed in court; and 4,111 convictions recorded, which is the highest in a single year since the commission’s founding in 2003. Senator Udende also noted that the EFCC successfully recovered substantial funds in both local and foreign currencies, along with various forfeited assets, which has positively impacted Nigeria’s economic standing and global reputation. He concluded that despite constraints in resources and personnel, the EFCC has maintained its mandate, boosting public confidence in the nation’s anti-corruption war.
Senator Onyekachi Nwebonyi (APC Ebonyi) seconded the motion, praising the EFCC’s improvement under the current administration, stating that it is now “living up to the expectations of Nigerians without relying on media trials.” He claimed the commission recovered over N500 billion in 2024 alone, calling the EFCC’s achievements a “revolution” and applauding President Tinubu for making key appointments. Senator Saliu Mustapha (APC Kwara Central) raised a point of concern regarding the EFCC’s authority to retain a statutory percentage of recovered funds, questioning if the necessary legislative approval had been sought from the chamber. Senate President Godswill Akpabio clarified that the law requires the President of Nigeria, not the EFCC, to seek Senate approval for the retention of funds. He subsequently instructed the relevant committees to investigate whether such a request had been made. Akpabio emphasized that the EFCC’s role extends beyond prosecution to crime deterrence, stating that “For every conviction recorded, at least ten other crimes are likely prevented.” He promised the National Assembly’s full legislative backing to the anti-corruption fight and urged the EFCC to maintain transparency and accountability.
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