Abuja witnessed a major protest on Monday as members of the National Interest Coalition marched across the city in solidarity with the federal government’s anti-corruption campaign and the leadership of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Led by Comrade Bashir Abdul, the demonstrators converged at the EFCC headquarters in Jabi, after passing through the Central Area and the Three Arms Zone. The group presented a letter to the commission, vowing to resist alleged attempts to blackmail EFCC Chairman, Olanipekun Olukoyede, and derail the ongoing fight against corruption.
Speaking to journalists, Abdul alleged that certain top government officials and their allies were plotting to weaken the EFCC and undermine President Bola Tinubu’s anti-graft war. He warned that any attempt to bring down the commission would expose Nigeria to “unbridled corruption” that could cripple the nation’s development.
The protesters highlighted EFCC’s record achievements under Olukoyede’s leadership, including 4,111 convictions in 2024—the highest in its history. According to official figures, these convictions were secured from 15,724 petitions, 12,928 investigations, and 5,083 cases filed in court, translating to an over 80% conviction rate.
Also see: Renowned Comedian Ali Baba Loses N220m Property
They also listed high-profile prosecutions of former governors Yahaya Bello, Abdulfatah Ahmed, Willie Obiano, and Darius Ishaku as examples of renewed accountability for politically exposed persons. Other milestones cited included the return of 14 forfeited properties to the Enugu State government, international asset recoveries, and the seizure of over 750 properties in Abuja linked to corruption.
Olukoyede’s recognition by the Canadian High Commission for tackling transnational crimes, as well as his leadership roles in regional and global anti-corruption initiatives, were also noted.
The coalition reaffirmed its commitment to defend the EFCC and support the Tinubu administration’s anti-graft agenda against “sabotage by corrupt elements.”
