Reps Move to Limit President’s Control Over EFCC Chair
The House of Representatives has initiated a legislative process aimed at reducing the President’s influence over the appointment and removal of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) chairperson, in a bid to strengthen the anti-graft agency’s independence and transparency.
The proposal, which passed second reading on the House floor, seeks to amend the EFCC Establishment Act (2004) to ensure that the appointment of the Commission’s chair would be subject to broader institutional checks beyond presidential discretion.
Curbing Executive Dominance
The sponsor of the bill, Hon. Ibrahim Olanrewaju (APC–Ekiti), explained that the reform aims to “depoliticize the EFCC” and make it more accountable to Nigerians, rather than being perceived as an instrument of the executive arm.
“Our goal is to give the EFCC full autonomy so that it can function as a truly independent anti-corruption agency. The current structure gives the President excessive control, which undermines public confidence in the Commission’s neutrality,” Olanrewaju said during plenary.
Under the proposed amendment, the EFCC chairperson would be appointed by the President on the recommendation of the National Judicial Council (NJC), subject to confirmation by the Senate. The bill also stipulates that removal of the chair can only be done with approval of two-thirds of the National Assembly, following proven misconduct or incapacity.
Lawmakers Advocate Stronger Institutional Checks
Several lawmakers supported the bill, noting that it aligns with democratic principles and international best practices in governance.
“We cannot claim to fight corruption effectively when the agency responsible for that fight operates under the shadow of political influence,” said Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha (Abia).
“This bill will ensure that no government uses the EFCC as a tool for political persecution or protection,” added Hon. Mohammed Jega (Kebbi).
Concerns and Opposition
However, a few lawmakers cautioned that limiting presidential control could lead to bureaucratic delays and confusion in the chain of command.
“While we support independence for the EFCC, we must also ensure that accountability is not lost in the process,” warned Hon. Kola Adebisi (Ogun).
The proposed amendment has been referred to the House Committee on Anti-Corruption and Financial Crimes for further legislative work and public hearing.
Civil Society, Experts React
Civil society groups and governance experts have lauded the House’s move, describing it as a bold step toward strengthening Nigeria’s anti-corruption architecture.
The Centre for Democratic Accountability (CDA) said in a statement that the reform could “reduce executive manipulation and encourage professionalism within the EFCC.”
“The EFCC must serve the Nigerian people, not political interests. This reform will help ensure that its leadership is chosen based on merit, not loyalty,” said CDA Director, Dr. Esther Danjuma.
Background
Since its creation in 2003, the EFCC has had multiple leadership controversies, often linked to allegations of political interference. Several former chairpersons, including Nuhu Ribadu, Ibrahim Magu, and Abdulrasheed Bawa, were removed under contentious circumstances tied to political dynamics rather than formal disciplinary processes.
If passed, the amendment would mark a significant shift in Nigeria’s anti-corruption framework—ensuring the EFCC operates as an independent, merit-driven institution, free from executive dominance.
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