In a significant crackdown on corruption, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has launched a probe involving 10 senior officers of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) concerning an alleged N7.5 billion fraud. This investigation also encompasses 10 contractors associated with the fraudulent activities.
The investigation was initiated following a formal request by EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede on April 26, 2024, urging the NSCDC Commandant General, Ahmed Audi, to release the implicated officers for questioning. The inquiry has revealed that the accused officers might have been involved in money laundering activities, channeling large sums to various Bureau de Change operators.
Documents exclusively obtained by our correspondent indicate that these officers and contractors are suspected of diverting funds designated for NSCDC operations and projects. The EFCC has traced payments to a total of 20 contractors, with substantial sums allocated to three key contractors who control multiple companies. These primary contractors were reportedly retained with a five percent fee and received substantial funds exceeding N1 billion, which were then converted to US dollars.
An inside source, preferring to remain anonymous due to the sensitive nature of the investigation, shared, "The EFCC has been diligently tracing the flow of the misappropriated funds. The contractors have been grilled, and one female contractor, who received over N1 billion, has been particularly evasive."
Further disclosures from the investigation revealed that many contractors were led to believe they were awarded contracts which, unbeknownst to them, had already been completed by NSCDC senior officers. This elaborate scheme led to considerable financial discrepancies and unearned payouts.
The situation has sparked concern among the contractors, some of whom are considering protesting at the office of the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, seeking intervention and resolution.
Amid these revelations, there is also emerging discontent within the NSCDC ranks, with claims of underpayment during the recently concluded elections, raising more questions about the financial management within the NSCDC compared to other security agencies.
The EFCC's diligent efforts have already led to the recovery of approximately N1 billion, demonstrating the scale and impact of the alleged fraudulent activities. The ongoing investigation continues to unravel the extent of corruption and is aimed at holding all involved accountable.
As this high-profile case progresses, the implications for the NSCDC and overall trust in public institutions remain significant, underscoring the need for stringent oversight and accountability in government operations. The EFCC's commitment to combating corruption is evident, and this case may serve as a deterrent to others in positions of power considering similar misdeeds.
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