The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has come under fire on social media after posting a message on its official X account encouraging Nigerians to report economic and financial crimes committed by even their closest relatives, promising a “substantial reward” for whistleblowers.
The post, which read in part, “Blow that whistle even if it is your father, mother, brother, sister, lover, or extended family member,” triggered a wave of anger and criticism from Nigerians who say the agency has a long history of ignoring corruption by the powerful while cracking down on petty criminals.
One of the most viral responses came from medical doctor and online influencer @OurFavOnlineDoc, who wrote:
“The one wey we blow about Tompolo and Okoya children, what have you done about it, you ugly, useless vulture pretending to be an eagle.”
The post has since sparked hundreds of reactions, with many users accusing the EFCC of hypocrisy and complicity in shielding politically exposed persons.
Referencing a whistleblower who allegedly exposed land allocations to Wike’s sons and was later arrested, a user, @AutoCON11, wrote: “The guy that blew for Wike’s son acres of land has been arrested by the police, and Wike is on the television bragging about Rolls Royce.”
Another user, @Philip_ItisI, described the EFCC as “one of the most useless groups. If they decide to go for the high and low, it would be good. They celebrate those who are involved in money laundering in office… and they go for only yahoo boys.”
Critics argued that the agency has become more performative than effective, focusing on low-level fraudsters while treating high-profile cases with kid gloves. Others pointed to names like Tompolo, Yahaya Bello, and other politically connected individuals who have been named in corruption scandals but appear untouched.
A user, @ChizobaJuliet14, said, “The whistle that would be blown and the video evidence will be termed AI-generated, and the whistleblower will find himself behind bars.” @UC_Emeliem mocked the EFCC further, saying, “The whistle reached Yaya Bello’s side, e damage EFCC ear drum. Make una dey play.”
The agency’s public image continues to deteriorate, with mounting accusations that its operations are lopsided and tainted by political interference. Critics argue that whistleblowers risk persecution or silence, especially when their revelations implicate those close to the corridors of power.
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