The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has suspended some of its operatives for allegedly extorting N10 million from a Nigerian rapper, Oladipupo Oladimeji, popularly known as Oladips.
EFCC’s spokesperson, Dele Oyewale disclosed this in a statement on Saturday in Abuja.
The hip-pop artist had alleged that he was detained for five days by the EFCC operatives, claiming that he paid N10 million before regaining his freedom in spite of no evidence of wrongdoing.
Oyewale said the anti-graft agency viewed the allegation with the utmost seriousness and had already launched a full-scale investigation into the matter.
According to him, Oladips’ claim that the EFCC operatives collected money from him before securing his release after an arrest involving other suspected internet fraudsters, was of grave nature.
He said the officers involved in the case were being investigated and had been stood down from their duties until the investigation was completed.
He said officers involved in the musician’s case had been summoned to EFCC corporate headquarters in Abuja for questioning.
”The commission wishes to state unreservedly that the grim picture painted by the artist does not reflect the true picture of the EFCC.
”We have seen his claims and have commenced investigations on them accordingly.
”The officers in the team that handled his case have been relieved of their operational duties while investigations continue, ” the statement said.
He reiterated the EFCC’s commitment to integrity and accountability, assuring the public that any operative found guilty of misconduct would face disciplinary actions.
“The commission is serious about its value of integrity and will take necessary action against any staff found to be culpable.
”However, if the allegation is found to be false and raised to tarnish the image of the commission, appropriate sanctions will also be imposed,” he said.
He urged Nigerians to remain patient and allow due process to take its course, reaffirming its commitment to fighting economic and financial crimes without fear or favour.
