Nigerians have often accused the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) of showing more speed and precision in prosecuting internet fraudsters, popularly known as Yahoo boys, compared to bringing politically exposed persons to justice.
But EFCC spokesman, Dele Oyewale, dismissed these claims, saying the anti-graft agency applies the same level of commitment to all cases, whether Yahoo cybercrime, contract fraud, or money laundering.
Speaking in a recent interview on Hard Facts with Nigeria Info FM, Oyewale denied that the EFCC treats politicians with kid gloves, insisting that delays in high-profile cases are largely due to the judicial process.
“As far as the criminal issues are concerned, and adjudication of cases in court and the operation of economic and financial crime, there are no low-hanging fruits; every crime is a crime,” he said.
Oyewale stressed that while internet fraud cases appear to move swiftly, trials involving politically exposed persons often require extensive preparation before charges are filed.
“Last year alone, five former governors were charged to court, five former ministers were charged to court. If you know what goes into the arraignment of one single politically exposed person, you’ll know that a lot of work has gone on.
“It’s the business of the court to determine the resolution of these cases, and if there’s a delay in the resolution, it should not be blamed on EFCC,” he explained.
He emphasised that the Commission’s mandate covers all financial crimes equally but pointed out that it is ultimately the courts, not the EFCC, that decide the pace and outcome of trials.
His comments, however, sparked mixed reactions on social media. Many Nigerians expressed frustration at what they see as swifter court processes for internet fraud cases compared to high-profile corruption trials.
Instagram user @k3vxx2 wrote: “So why does it seem like the boys get harsher sentences for lesser offences and these guys loot billions upon billions and walk not even out in handcuffs?”
Another user, @fizzy_renzel, argued: “Five politicians charged to court in a whole year but una dey arraign 300 boys in one day, pack hundreds of boys in one night.”
Others placed the blame squarely on the judiciary. @jackiestevenboutiq stated: “I think I will agree with him. The earlier we realise the judiciary is the biggest problem we have, the better.”
Similarly, @koolkamzzy described the system as unfair: “The same template, the same procedure, but you don’t parade politicians. A two-tier justice system is what EFCC is operating.”
For @itz_officialmayorsnr, the courts are complicit: “Meaning, it is the court that is encouraging corruption and also sabotaging the fight against corruption.”
Echoing the same frustration, @cecilia__remi added: “I can’t remember the last time a prominent politician was caught by EFCC and sentenced to jail.”
