Exclusive: EFCC Investigates Alleged Diversion of N7.5 Billion by NSCDC Contractors
In a startling revelation, an investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is currently underway into the alleged diversion of N7.5 billion by contractors associated with the Commandant General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Ahmed Abubakar Audi. According to a reliable source close to the investigation, the entire sum, distributed over a period of five days, has been traced to the accounts of Bureau De Change (BDC) operators.
The investigation has unearthed that payments were made to a total of 20 contractors, with a substantial sum of N2 billion allocated to three major contractors, each of whom owns five companies. These contractors allegedly received a retention fee of 5%. Letters of invitation have been dispatched to these contractors, and most have already been interviewed by EFCC operatives.
However, one contractor, a woman who purportedly received over 1 billion, has been evasive and has yet to comply with the EFCC’s summons. It was discovered that all the funds linked to her were converted into USD. Additionally, another contractor, Sotitrech Computers and Jikol Multipurpose, has been implicated in the scheme, utilizing One Al-Hikma Communications for fund exchanges.
Furthermore, there are allegations that payments meant for elections were disbursed to NSCDC staff but were reportedly insufficient compared to staff in similar agencies. This has raised concerns about possible financial irregularities within the NSCDC.
The EFCC has taken decisive action by inviting officers of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps for questioning. The officers scheduled to be questioned starting from May 2, 2024, include Victor Olanrewaju Fayemi, Anthony Akpan Uwen, Patrick Babatunde, Comfort Danladi, Akibo Michael Olusola, Umaru Usman Karshi, Adewale Kukoyi, Joseph Ajayi Ibitulo, A.A Jonathan, and Paul Ahepa.
As the investigation progresses, it sheds light on potential financial misconduct within the NSCDC and underscores the EFCC’s commitment to rooting out corruption in government agencies. The outcome of this investigation will undoubtedly have significant implications for accountability and transparency in public procurement processes.
