The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has accused Nigeria’s Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) of demonstrating political bias, claiming the anti-graft agency predominantly targets opposition figures while shielding allies of the ruling party.
Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC’s National Publicity Secretary, articulated the allegation during an interview on Arise Television on Thursday. His statement centres on the recent arrests of two prominent former government officials: Nasir El-Rufai, ex-Governor of Kaduna State, and Abubakar Malami, former Attorney-General of the Federation.
Abdullahi contended that national anti-corruption bodies, including the EFCC and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), are funded by public resources to impartially investigate and prosecute corruption. However, he alleged they have been compromised.
“They appear to be only efficient and effective when opposition figures are involved,” Abdullahi said. He contrasted this with members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), suggesting that individuals with past corruption investigations or pending court cases see those issues dismissed upon defecting to the APC. “Suddenly the moment they join the ruling party, they use the broom to sweep it under the carpet,” he added, referencing the APC’s logo.
The ADC spokesman clarified that the party was not pronouncing on the guilt or innocence of El-Rufai or Malami. Instead, he framed the issue as a systemic concern: “We are concerned about the bastardization of national institutions and weaponization of institutions against opposition figures.”
This accusation touches on a recurring critique in Nigerian politics regarding the perceived selective application of law enforcement agencies. The EFCC has repeatedly denied such claims, asserting its operations are guided by evidence and the law. The commission has, however, investigated and prosecuted numerous figures from both the opposition and the ruling party over the years.
The ADC’s comments highlight the deepening political tensions surrounding the credibility of state institutions. By alleging partisan use of the EFCC, the opposition party raises questions about the fairness of Nigeria’s anti-corruption crusade and its impact on democratic competitiveness. The statement is likely to intensify public and civil society discourse on institutional independence ahead of future electoral cycles.
The EFCC and the APC have not issued immediate responses to the ADC’s specific allegations. The developments underscore the volatile intersection of law enforcement and politics in Nigeria, where anti-graft efforts are frequently scrutinised through a partisan lens.
