EFCC suspends operatives over alleged N10m extortion of Nigerian rapper

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has suspended several of its officials accused of extorting ₦10 million from Nigerian rapper Oladipupo Oladimeji, better known as Oladips.

EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale confirmed the suspension in a statement issued on Saturday in Abuja.

Oladips had earlier alleged that he was unlawfully detained by EFCC operatives for five days and forced to pay ₦10 million before being released, despite there being no evidence of wrongdoing.

Oyewale noted that the commission had taken the allegation seriously and initiated a full investigation into the matter.

He described the artist’s claim that operatives collected money from him before securing his release after an arrest involving suspected internet fraudsters as “grave.”

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According to him, the officers implicated in the case have been withdrawn from active duty pending the outcome of the investigation.

Oyewale added that the affected personnel had been summoned to the commission’s headquarters in Abuja for questioning.

“The commission wishes to state unreservedly that the grim picture painted by the artist does not reflect the true image of the EFCC. We have seen his claims and have commenced investigations accordingly. The officers in the team that handled his case have been relieved of their operational duties while investigations continue,” he said.

He reiterated the agency’s commitment to transparency and discipline, assuring the public that any officer found guilty of misconduct would face appropriate sanctions.

“The commission is serious about its value of integrity and will take necessary action against any staff found 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 added.

Oyewale further urged Nigerians to exercise patience and allow the investigation to follow due process, reaffirming the EFCC’s dedication to fighting corruption and financial crimes without bias.