EFCC Investigates Nigeria Christian Pilgrim Commission Over Alleged Fund Misappropriation
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has launched an investigation into the Nigeria Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC) over allegations of misappropriating public funds. As part of the probe, approximately 146 staff members of the NCPC have been invited for questioning by the anti-graft agency.
Sources within the EFCC revealed that the invited staff are required to report to the EFCC headquarters in Abuja between Monday, January 20, and Friday, January 24. The investigation is part of the commission’s ongoing efforts to tackle financial mismanagement within government agencies.
The invited NCPC staff members have been instructed to bring their international passports with them when they appear at the EFCC’s office. An internal memo from the NCPC, dated January 16, 2025, directed the affected staff to comply with the EFCC’s request. The memo, signed by Assistant Director Chukwura Frank, on behalf of the Executive Secretary, informed staff that the EFCC was looking into allegations of misappropriation of public funds by the commission.
Detailed Schedule for NCPC Staff Interviews
The memo outlined specific dates for each group of staff to report for questioning. Among those summoned for interviews are senior staff members, including accountants, procurement officers, and planning officers. For instance, the Assistant Chief Accountant is scheduled to appear on Wednesday, January 22, while other staff members, including procurement officers and planning officers, are slated for questioning on Thursday, January 23, and Monday, January 27, 2025.
While the EFCC’s Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, could not be reached for comment, sources within the commission have confirmed that the investigation is ongoing, with the 146 staff being a part of the agency’s examination of the NCPC’s financial dealings.
Routine Check or Something More?
One staff member of the NCPC, who spoke to our correspondent on the condition of anonymity, downplayed the gravity of the investigation, describing the EFCC’s invitation as a routine exercise to review the commission’s financial records. “It is not a new thing for us here. It is a routine exercise to check the books of the commission. It is nothing to worry about,” the staff member said.
The investigation, however, raises questions about the financial management of the NCPC, particularly regarding its handling of public funds. At the time of filing this report, the spokesperson for the NCPC, Celestine Ogugua, could not be reached for comment.
As the investigation progresses, the EFCC’s efforts to scrutinize the NCPC’s financial activities may lead to more revelations about the commission’s fiscal operations.
