Nigeria – House of Representatives to Probe Allegations of Corruption Against EFCC, Correctional Service

By Utebor Paul, Nigeria

The House of Representatives has resolved to investigate serious allegations of corruption levelled against the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCS).

The allegations were made by Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, who accused both agencies of receiving N15 million to drop money laundering charges against Nigerian cross dresser, Idris Okuneye, better known as Bobrisky.

The resolution followed a motion of urgent public importance brought before the House by Rep. Patrick Umoh, titled “Urgent need to investigate the disturbing allegation of corruption against the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Nigerian Correctional Service to save Nigeria from ridicule.”

The motion was presented during Thursday’s plenary session.

Leading the debate, Rep. Umoh pointed out that the allegations had gained significant public attention, casting a negative light on Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts.

He referred to the claims made by VeryDarkMan, which alleged that the EFCC dropped charges against Bobrisky after collecting N15 million.

Further allegations also claimed that, despite being convicted for defacing the naira, Bobrisky did not serve his prison sentence as mandated.

The motion stated: “The House notes the disturbing and widely circulated publication emanating from Martins Vincent Otse (also known as VeryDarkMan) against critical Nigerian law enforcement institutions; the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Nigerian Correctional Service.”

The House expressed concern over the damaging impact of these claims on Nigeria’s international reputation and its struggle to combat corruption.

“Worried about the negative image and portrayal of Nigeria as a corrupt nation and Nigeria’s struggle to redeem itself from such perception,” the motion further emphasized.

In response, the House unanimously adopted the motion, agreeing to set up an ad-hoc committee to probe the allegations.

The committee, comprising individuals of unquestionable integrity, has been tasked with investigating the matter and reporting back to the House within three legislative weeks for further action.