By Anthony Otaru, Abuja
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Thursday handed over ₦3.94 billion in recovered funds to the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Ltd, reinforcing ongoing efforts to tackle corruption in the oil sector.
The funds were formally presented at the EFCC headquarters in Abuja by the Commission’s Secretary, Mohammed Hammajoda, on behalf of the Executive Chairman, Ola Olukoyede.
Hammajoda said the recovery followed “diligent investigation and professional uncovering of fraudulent engagements by some actors in NNPC,” stressing the agency’s resolve to hold perpetrators accountable.
“On behalf of the Executive Chairman, we will continue to put ourselves on the line to serve over 220 million Nigerians,” he said.
He added that the anti-graft agency remains committed despite the risks involved. “Along the line, many of our colleagues have paid the price, and others will still pay the price as we continue to do our work with courage and integrity,” he stated.
Formally handing over the cheque, Hammajoda declared: “On behalf of the EFCC, I present the sum of Three Billion, Nine Hundred and Thirty-Six Million, One Hundred and Forty-Five Thousand, Eight Hundred and Twenty-Two Naira to you.”
Receiving the funds, NNPC Executive Vice President, Downstream, Mumuni Dagazau, commended the EFCC for what he described as a significant milestone in accountability and institutional cooperation.
“NNPC, over the years, has had its struggles and challenges, and one thing we have always tried to do is correct the system,” Dagazau said.
He described the recovery as a moment of pride for the company, noting, “When the opportunity came for this recovery from your people who handled this, it was something I was really proud of. For me, this is a great day for us.”
Dagazau added that the national oil company would continue to rely on the EFCC for support, describing the development as “a real commitment for us moving forward” and a demonstration of national unity in the fight against corruption.
