Oba of Benin Blasts EFCC for Mishandling Fraud Case

The Oba of Benin, Ewuare II, has accused the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) of abetting crimes in Nigeria.

These allegations were made on Monday during a visit by the new Benin Zonal Director of the EFCC, Effa Okim, to the Oba’s palace in Benin.

Valid View Network reports that Oba Ewuare II cited a specific incident involving unnamed former palace officials who were arrested for fraud and handed over to the EFCC in Benin for investigation and prosecution.

According to him, EFCC operatives mishandled the case, leading to the release of the suspects a few years ago.

The monarch expressed his dismay that despite clear evidence of fraud, the investigators allegedly ignored it, allowing the culprits to go free.

He urged the EFCC to combat crime impartially, stating, “We want to draw your attention to one or two grey areas in your operations. No matter how much you try to support the EFCC from the palace, it is very difficult because they seem to listen to other parties. What I have been told is that they take instructions from the highest bidder.”

The Oba criticized a specific EFCC operative involved in the aforementioned case, suggesting that her performance was severely lacking and possibly influenced by corruption.

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He mentioned that his previous efforts to assist the EFCC were met with negative outcomes, which disappointed him.

Despite his criticisms, the Oba expressed hope for the newly-appointed EFCC chairman, Ola Olukayode, praising his current performance and indicating that he was on the right track.

The monarch also pledged the palace’s support to the state government in tackling social inequality and reducing social vices.

In response, Effa Okim appealed for the Oba’s support in advocacy against financial crimes, noting that Edo State ranks second in Nigeria for financial crimes, behind Lagos State.

He also acknowledged the historical ties between his state of origin, Cross River, and Edo State, and sought the Oba’s prayers and blessings to effectively fulfill his duties.