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Tag: EFCC

  • EFCC failed to tender some statements I made – Ex-AGF tells court

    EFCC failed to tender some statements I made – Ex-AGF tells court

    A former Accountant-General of the Federation (AGF), Ahmed Idris, on Wednesday told an Abuja High Court that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) failed to tender all the statements he made in their office.

    Idris in his evidence in the trial-within-trial ordered by the court following the objection raised by his counsel, Chris Uche SAN to the admissibility of his statements as exhibits, mentioned the three statements he made on the consultancy in question.

    The trial-within-trial was on grounds that the former AGF’s statements the prosecution sought to tender on Nov. 23, 2022 were made on the ground of deception and inducement.

    The EFCC charged the former AGF alongside Geoffrey Olusegun Akindele, Mohammed Kudu Usman and Gezawa Commodity Market and Exchange Limited with 14 counts, bordering on theft, fraudulent diversion of public fund to the tune of N109.5 billion.

    They are being prosecuted by EFCC, before Justice Yusuf Halilu, in the case marked, FCT/HC/CR/199/2022.

    The defendants, however, pleaded not guilty to the charge.

    Idris testified for himself in the trial-within-trial.

    “Apart from the 13 statements brought to court by EFCC, I made a total of 16 statements on different days in the course of investigation,” he told me court..

    Led in evidence by Uche, Idris informed the court that he was taken to the procurement unit of the EFCC three times and that he made statements on those times about the consultancy in question and the entire processes involved in the matter.

    Three files were brought, marked certified true copies, to the head of the procurement unit.

    ” I mentioned that the Minister (of Finance) approved the consultancy and that the Federation Account Allocation Committee and the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation Commission and the oil producing state governors were all involved.

    “I am surprised that all the three statements were not brought to court, including the rules with the certified true copies” he said.

    Idris told the court that his lawyer was not present when he made the statements to EFCC on June 10, 2022, June 27, 2022, July 5, 2022, respectively.

    He denied writing any of the cautionary words in the respective statements, adding that the statements were dictated to him by EFCC investigators

    “It is not correct that I made the statement in the present of my lawyer, Mr Gbenga Adeyemi. The statement is a dictation.

    “None of my written statement written were video recorded by my interrogators,” he said.

    After his evidence Halilu adjourned the matter until July 17 for cross examination of the former AGF by the prosecution in the trial-within-trial.

  • How EFCC invited me over abuse of naira – AY Comedian

    How EFCC invited me over abuse of naira – AY Comedian

    Popular Nigerian comedian and actor, Ayo Makun, known as AY, has addressed the public following his invitation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over alleged abuse of the Naira.

    The standup comedian cum film maker disclosed that he was invited on Monday in connection with an incident involving the public spraying of local and foreign currencies—a practice recently categorized as an offense under laws regulating the handling of the Nigerian currency.

    The comedian acknowledged the encounter as a “valuable lesson” and pledged to use his platform to raise awareness about the proper handling of the national currency.

    He wrote on “I am grateful to God for His mercy and guidance. On Monday, I was invited by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) regarding an incident involving the public spraying of both local and foreign currencies—an act that has been classified as an offense related to the abuse of the Naira.

    “I want to sincerely thank the EFCC and all authorities involved for their understanding and for granting me pardon based on confirmation that the money being sprayed is not linked to the proceeds of crime or any form of illicit funds.

    “This experience has been a valuable lesson, and I am personally committed to promoting awareness about the proper respect and care for our national currency.

    “To my friends, family, and the general public:
    We all know that spraying money at public events is a practice common in Nigerian celebrations, especially during weddings, funerals, and parties. It is generally considered a cultural tradition rather than a criminal act. But let me attach some slides to this post on the DOS AND DON’T.

    “It is important to understand that mutilating or abusing the Naira—whether by spraying, tearing, defacing, or mishandling—is not just a cultural practice but also a violation of Nigerian law. Such acts undermine the integrity of our national currency and can have serious legal consequences.

    “Let us all strive to uphold the dignity of our currency, which is a symbol of our nation’s sovereignty and economic stability. Respect for the Naira is respect for Nigeria’s future. Together, we can promote responsible behavior and foster a culture of patriotism and integrity. Thank you.”

  • EFCC traces laundered $300,000 to yahoo boy

    EFCC traces laundered $300,000 to yahoo boy

    The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) said it has traced over 300,000 dollars, laundered to a suspected internet fraudster.

    A statement by Mr Dele Oyewale, the Spokesperson of the EFCC on Tuesday in Abuja said the suspect was among the 35 suspects arrested Sunday in Auchi area of Edo.

    Oyewale said the arrest was sequel to credible intelligence that linked the suspects to fraudulent internet activities.

    He said investigations had revealed that the suspect had collected and laundered over $300,000 for his syndicate members who were at large.

    ”Apart from internet fraud, EFCC’s investigations revealed that the suspect is equally involved in investment and banking fraud.

    ”He will be charged to court as soon as the investigation is concluded,” he said.

  • I was asked if I knew spraying naira was illegal – Iyabo Ojo shares ‘terrifying experience’ with EFCC

    I was asked if I knew spraying naira was illegal – Iyabo Ojo shares ‘terrifying experience’ with EFCC

    Iyabo Ojo, a Nollywood actress, has shared her experience with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) after her daughter, Priscilla Ojo’s wedding to Tanzanian singer Juma Jux in a star-studded ceremony on April 17, 2025.

    Recall, at the wedding, which was attended by prominent Nigerian figures and numerous Nollywood stars, bundles of 100-dollar bills and Naira notes were showered upon the actress and her daughter.

    Addressing the growing concerns by friends and well wishers following the recent crackdown by the anti-graft agency on financial malpractices by notable personalities, Ms Ojo recounted her experience with the Conmission after honouring their invitation.

    She narrated how they showed her video extracted from her daughter’s wedding where guests sprayed Naira and foreign currencies, and asked her if I knew this was illegal”

    She added that after the questioning, she left their vicinity the same day.She further commended the EFCC officials for their candor, respect, after which, advised strongly against spraying any currency in Nigeria to avoid issues with the EFCC.

    Read her post below: “Following the recent media publication on social media and numerous calls and texts messages from different quarters seeking to hear from me on the EFCC invitation and to ascertain my welfare, I find it expedient to release this briefing.

    “I recently had an experience with the EFCC in Nigeria after receiving an invitation letter while I was in the UK. Upon my return, I visited the EFCC on the 5th day of 2025, where I was asked several questions relating to my personal bio data, career, work experience, and companies, amongst others.

    “The EFCC officials showed me videos extracted from my daughter’s wedding where guests, including colleagues and friends, were spraying Naira and foreign currencies.

    “I was asked if I knew this was illegal, and I explained that I thought only abuse or mutilation of the Naira was an offense.

    “The EFCC officials clarified that spraying money, including on people’s bodies, is prohibited. I was surprised to learn that spraying any currency, including Dollars, is also not allowed.

    After questioning, I was allowed to leave the same day, but my personal lawyer, O.I. Salami stood in for me as I may be called upon again.

    I commend the EFCC officials for their candor, respect, and civility.

    “Given this experience, I strongly advise against spraying any currency in Nigeria to avoid issues with the EFCC.

    “Perhaps it’s time to reconsider this long-standing tradition. Let’s prioritize caution and avoid any potential problems.”

  • Just in: Finally, EFCC grants VDM bail

    Just in: Finally, EFCC grants VDM bail

    Finally, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission EFCC has granted social media influencer, Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan an administrative bail.

    The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, however explained that in the exercise of its mandate of tackling economic and financial crimes, invited Martins Innocent Otse owing to a series of petitions bordering on sundry issues of alleged financial crimes raised against him.

    He refused to show up in spite of several invitations sent to him through his known addresses and medium of communication.

    The petitions pertain to grave allegations of financial malfeasance, which cannot be ignored by the Commission.

    It is needful to admit that the Commission is aware of several unguarded attacks of the suspect against its operations.

    While such conduct is condemnable, his arrest was not informed by such attacks.

    The relevant law enforcement agency will be allowed to look into them.

    The EFCC has a lawful right to hold Otse in custody like any other suspect being investigated by the Commission.

    The appropriate Remand Order was obtained in this regard.

    He has been offered an administrative bail and would be released after fulfilling all the bail conditions.

    The Commission appreciates the interest of Nigerians in its operations.

    The passion, enthusiasm and torrential reactions to all of its activities are welcome.

    However, insinuations about its motive in carrying out its assignment should no longer continue.

    The EFCC should be allowed to do its job without fear or favour. As soon as investigations are concluded, charges will be filed.

  • ‘He shunned invitations’ – EFCC finally breaks silence on VeryDarkMan’s arrest

    ‘He shunned invitations’ – EFCC finally breaks silence on VeryDarkMan’s arrest

    The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has disclosed why its operatives arrested social media activist Martins Otse, also known as VeryDarkMan.

    TheNewsGuru reports that the anti-graft via a statement on Tuesday on its social media handles stated that it arrested VeryDarkMan over a series of petitions bordering on sundry issues of alleged financial crimes raised against him.

    Recall that Otse was reportedly arrested last week at a Guaranty Trust Bank branch in Abuja by operatives of the anti-graft agency.

    Speaking further, the Agency stated that the Commission is aware of several unguarded attacks of VDM against its operations, adding that, while such conduct is condemnable, his arrest was not informed by such attacks.

    The statement read: “The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, in the exercise of its mandate of tackling economic and financial crimes, invited Martins Innocent Otse owing to a series of petitions bordering on sundry issues of alleged financial crimes raised against him. He refused to show up in spite of several invitations sent to him through his known addresses and medium of communication. The petitions pertain to grave allegations of financial malfeasance which cannot be ignored by the Commission.

    “It is needful to admit that the Commission is aware of several unguarded attacks of the suspect against its operations. While such conduct is condemnable, his arrest was not informed by such attacks. The relevant law enforcement agency will be allowed to look into them.

    “The EFCC has a lawful right to hold Otse in custody like any other suspect being investigated by the Commission. The appropriate Remand Order was obtained in this regard. He has been offered an administrative bail and would be released after fulfilling all the bail conditions.

    “The Commission appreciates the interest of Nigerians in its operations. The passion, enthusiasm and torrential reactions to all of its activities are welcome. However, insinuations about its motive in carrying out its assignment should no longer continue. The EFCC should be allowed to do its job without fear or favour. As soon as investigations are concluded, charges will be filed.”

  • EFCC to arraign VeryDarkMan over multiple petitions

    EFCC to arraign VeryDarkMan over multiple petitions

    The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have confirmed that popular social media activist, Martins Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan, will be released once he meets his bail conditions.

    EFCC spokesperson, Dele Oyewale while speaking to BBC News Pidgin on Monday, stated, “We will release him if he meets his bail conditions, and we will take the case to court as soon as possible.”

    According to him, VeryDark Man’s arrest followed multiple petitions submitted by various individuals, alleging misconduct.

    “We arrested him to respond to a series of allegations raised against him by some petitioners,” he said.

    VDM’s arrest, carried out in Abuja by EFCC operatives, has triggered a strong backlash online, with many accusing the commission of engaging in a crackdown on dissent.

    TheNewsGuru reports that some youths on Monday took to the streets of Abuja to demand his immediate release.

     

  • VeryDarkMan’s arrest sparks outrage as Davido, Cubana Chief Priest, others react

    VeryDarkMan’s arrest sparks outrage as Davido, Cubana Chief Priest, others react

    Afrobeat  superstar  Davido, celebrity bar man, Cubana Chief Priest and other Nigerians have condemned the arrest of social media influencer and activist, Martins  Otse, also known as VeryDarkMan (VDM).

    The celebrities and fans of VDM said his arrest was carried out like an “abduction”, which left many Nigerians worried, and therefore demanded his release.

    VDM was reportedly arrested on Friday at a bank branch in the Wuse area of Abuja by a combined team of the   Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) operatives.

    According to media reports, EFCC has secured a court order to remand him pending the conclusion of an investigation into alleged cybercrime offences.

    However, his arrest has sparked widespread outrage on social media, with the hashtag #FreeVDM, trending across different platforms.

    According to the celebrities and fans, it is   impossible to distinguish between legitimate arrest and unlawful abduction of the embattled socialite.

    In a post on X, Davido extolled VDM’s positive impact on the lives of common Nigerians and urged relevant authorities to release him.

    He wrote, “Outside all the noise it’s good to see that the good one does actually impacts lives and Pple actually appreciate!

    “The support I’m seeing for VDM everywhere is encouraging… makes one want to do more for the masses FREE MY GUY.”

    Cubana Chief Priest, in a post on his Instagram page, pleaded with the police to free the social media influencer right away, stressing that he should not be unfairly detained.

    “We Just Dey Fake Happiness @verydarkblackman Our Man Is Missing. We Are Hopeful He Regains Freedom Today Or A Press Release From The People That Abducted Him.

    “Joy No Dey The Voice Of The Voiceless Is Missing, The Hope Of The Hopeless Is Nowhere To Be Found. Peace Dey Cry, Street Dey Call.

    For FreeVDM Now!!!”.

    Fans, especially social media follower, of VDM have also expressed  worries over the development.

    @ibrahimazeez21:“Exactly what Nigeria needs to get better , we need the voices of strong men like you chief priest , your always loved , thank you …. CP no small”

    @orife_orife:“Now the world will see why you and David deserve all the love .where them way dey claim top spot dey . thank you eze-mmuo”

    @supernickky_musik:“If very dark man fit miss then freedom of speech is not truly guaranteed here. Common man no safe again ”

    @bigHotbaby1:”EFCC and these politicians really need to focus on the right things! There’s real corruption going on and lives being affected and more!!! They should focus on important issues. Free VDM”

    @X_apprendre: “It’s truly inspiring when someone stands up for what’s right and the people rally behind them.

    “VDM’s voice clearly resonates with many, and seeing that solidarity reminds us that integrity and courage still matter.

    The momentum can be a spark for even bigger change”

    Earlier, Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, in a post on his X page (formerly Twitter), also criticised the manner VDM was arrested.

    He, therefore, called for increased adherence to legal processes and the protection of fundamental rights.

    “The display of force, lacking in transparency and civility, closely resembled abduction, a disturbing method that not only creates fear but also risks being mimicked by criminal elements.

    “If Nigerians begin to struggle to distinguish between legitimate arrests and unlawful abductions, we will lose a vital layer of national security and accountability”.

  • BREAKING: EFCC arrests popular Kaduna content creator

    BREAKING: EFCC arrests popular Kaduna content creator

    The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested a social media content creator, Muhammed Kabir Sa’ad for allegedly abusing Naira notes.

    TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports the popular content creator was arrested by operatives of EFCC zonal directorate in Kaduna State.

    Sa’ad made a video of himself on his TikTok and Instagram account @youngcee0066, where he was seen throwing Naira notes on the floor and deliberately stepping on them and daring EFCC officers in Hausa Language to arrest him if they can.

    He was subsequently picked up in Tudun Wada area of Kaduna State, through surveillance and conveyed to the Kaduna Zonal Directorate of the Commission for interrogation.

    He would be charged to court upon the conclusion of his interrogation, the EFCC said.

  • EFCC ‘gives reason’ for VeryDarkMan’s sudden arrest

    EFCC ‘gives reason’ for VeryDarkMan’s sudden arrest

    A source within the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has opened up on the reason, the anti-graft agency arrested social media critic, Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan.

    Confirming the arrest on Sunday, May 4, 2025, a source who spoke on condition of anonymity, said VDM was arrested over allegations of cyberstalking.

    TheNewsGuru learnt that the source noted that there have been several complaints of VDM using  his social media platforms to harass, insult, and intimidate individuals.

    The source said, “We picked him up based on several complaints that he used his social media platforms to harass, insult, and intimidate individuals — actions that may contravene the Cybercrimes Act of 2015.”

    The source, however declined to disclose the identities of the complainants or further details regarding the nature of the complaints.

    Meanwhile, the EFCC is reportedly preparing to file formal charges against VeryDarkMan, potentially as early as Monday.