Anti-graft agency chairman reveals ongoing probes into serving state governors while sharing tale of fleeing ex-governor’s UK money-spraying incident.
Lagos, Nigeria – The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is investigating 18 serving governors for alleged corruption, Chairman Ola Olukoyede announced Thursday. The anti-graft agency chief disclosed the ongoing investigations during a public awareness event in Lagos.
EFCC Starts Investigations Before Terms End
The EFCC has changed its approach by launching investigations while governors still hold office. Previously, the agency waited until governors completed their terms before starting probes.
“We don’t wait until governors complete their tenure before we begin our work. Right now, the EFCC is actively investigating 18 sitting governors. Once their tenures are over, we will proceed accordingly,” Olukoyede stated.
This strategy allows the agency to build cases while governors still have immunity and prepare for prosecution once they leave office.
Former Governor Flees to UK, Causes Hotel Incident
Olukoyede shared how a former Nigerian governor fled to the United Kingdom immediately after leaving office to avoid arrest. The governor threw a birthday party at a London hotel and began spraying British pounds.
“A former Nigerian governor fled to the United Kingdom right after handing over power to avoid arrest. He threw a lavish birthday party in a hotel there and began spraying British pounds £10 and £50 notes shocking the hotel staff,” Olukoyede said.
The practice of spraying money at celebrations is common in Nigeria but unfamiliar to British hotel staff.
Police Called Over Money-Spraying Confusion
Hotel management called emergency services, thinking the man was having a mental health crisis. British staff had never seen someone throw money around at a party.
“When the Metropolitan Police arrived, they even called an ambulance, thinking he was mentally unstable,” Olukoyede explained.
Two other Nigerian governors at the event had to explain the cultural practice to British authorities. The incident shows how some officials try to escape justice by fleeing abroad.
New Strategy Targets Current Governors
The 18 ongoing investigations show the EFCC’s proactive approach to fighting corruption at the highest levels. The agency now monitors governors’ activities while they remain in office.
Olukoyede did not name the governors under investigation or specify which states are involved. The disclosure serves as a warning that investigations continue regardless of political status.
By Abdullah Korede
