The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Ola Olukoyede, has emphasized that the agency is not only focused on prosecuting fraudsters but also on recognizing Nigerians who uphold integrity and anti-corruption values. This statement was made during a speech at the Business Grant Award Ceremony organized by the Jerry Eze Foundation in Abuja on Wednesday, April 29, 2026.
During his address, Olukoyede revealed that the EFCC conducted a six-month investigation into Pastor Jerry Eze, the Founder of Streams of Joy International, over allegations of money laundering. The investigation concluded that Pastor Eze was not involved in any financial crime. "I want to let Nigerians know that EFCC is not just about investigating and prosecuting fraudsters; it is also about appreciating and commending Nigerians who are not involved in any form of economic and financial crimes. I commended Pastor Jerry Eze when our investigations showed that he was not involved in money laundering," Olukoyede stated.
Warning to Religious Leaders
The EFCC boss also issued a stern warning to religious leaders across the country, urging them to avoid corrupt practices. He stressed that integrity should be the guiding principle for adherents of every faith, calling on them to lead by example in the fight against corruption.
Commenting on the Jerry Eze Foundation’s initiative to support 240 small-scale business owners with a grant of $3,000 each, Olukoyede described the gesture as a powerful statement on impact and nation-building. He encouraged Nigerians to make similar contributions by positively impacting lives in their communities.
Support for Education and Youth Empowerment
Olukoyede also praised President Bola Tinubu for approving the release of N100 billion from the EFCC’s Recovery Account to the Nigerian Education Loan Fund and the Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation as seed capital for their operations. He highlighted ongoing efforts to establish a Cyber Crime Research Centre aimed at empowering Nigerian youths in information technology, enabling them to channel their talents into socially beneficial purposes.
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