By Luminous Jannamike

ABUJA — The Anti-Corruption Crusaders Network has challenged allegations against a senior officer of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, urging those making claims against the officer to provide verifiable evidence.

The group said the allegations, particularly those concerning the officer’s access to the EFCC chairman and handling of petitions, should be considered within the context of the Commission’s operational structure.

In a statement signed by its Managing Director, Ahmed Mahmud, the group said the EFCC, like other institutions, operates through a hierarchy in which responsibilities can be delegated.

“Every organization has a hierarchy from top to bottom. The head of any organization can delegate duties and assignments to anyone they trust and have confidence in,” Mahmud said.

The organisation also argued that some EFCC operations were conducted on a need-to-know basis, saying direct access to the chairman did not, on its own, establish wrongdoing.

“Operations are conducted on a ‘need-to-know’ basis,” the group said.

The organisation questioned allegations that the officer breached the Commission’s chain of command by obtaining approval directly from the chairman.

“What if the person who was bypassed had been sabotaging the EFCC’s work, and management took this step to protect the integrity of the investigation?” the group asked.

It also questioned how detailed information about the Commission’s internal operations could have featured in allegations purportedly made by an outsider.

“Besides, how would an outsider even be privy to such internal details?” Mahmud asked.

The group further questioned claims concerning an alleged voice recording, saying any such material should be made available for proper verification.

“They keep claiming they have a voice recording. Why not simply release it?” the organisation asked.

The group said allegations involving public officers should be properly established before being presented as facts, stressing that unverified claims could damage individual reputations and confidence in public institutions.

It urged EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, to ensure that allegations against the officer were properly investigated and that those making specific claims were required to substantiate them.

“We urge Mr. Olukoyede to identify those raising falsehood and campaign of calumny against the innocent officer and make them prove the rubbish they sent out,” Mahmud said.

The organisation said it would continue to monitor developments at the Commission while urging the officer concerned to remain focused on his duties.