The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has dismissed Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed’s allegations that the agency is being used to persecute him and members of his administration.

In a statement on its official X handle, the EFCC described the governor’s claims as “wild” and “far-fetched”, emphasizing that it operates independently and free from political influence.

The commission reacted to Mohammed’s assertion that political rivals, including the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, were leveraging the EFCC to target him. The EFCC stressed that it is a non-partisan agency tasked with investigating and prosecuting economic and financial crimes.

“The attempt to portray the EFCC as a pliable agency serving political interests is mischievous and condemnable,” the statement read. It further noted that no political officeholder can influence the commission’s investigative activities.

The EFCC also reminded the public that Mohammed was facing a money laundering trial before winning the Bauchi governorship, and the case was halted solely due to the constitutional immunity his office provides. The agency highlighted that ongoing cases against some Bauchi State officials have been fully documented in court, with charge sheets accessible to the public.

Responding to claims of exaggerating links to terrorism financing, the EFCC insisted it is enforcing the law and fulfilling its statutory duties. The agency also called out political double standards, noting that ruling party members facing corruption charges have not prompted similar allegations of persecution.

The commission urged Governor Mohammed to focus on governance and allow it to continue its mandate to sanitize the nation’s financial system.