EFCC Raids NAHCON Headquarters, Detains Spokesperson and Three Others Over Alleged Financial Misconduct
EFCC Raids NAHCON Headquarters, Detains Spokesperson and Three Others Over Alleged Financial Misconduct
Abuja, Nigeria – The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has carried out a high-profile raid at the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) headquarters in Abuja, detaining the commission’s spokesperson, Fatimah Usara, along with three other top officials. The operation, conducted in the early hours of Monday, is linked to an ongoing probe into alleged financial irregularities within the commission.
Swift EFCC Operation Targets Financial Misconduct
Eyewitnesses reported that EFCC operatives stormed the NAHCON premises around 11 a.m. in an unmarked white vehicle, swiftly taking control of key offices before escorting Usara and the other detainees into custody. The anti-graft agency has yet to release an official statement detailing the allegations, but sources indicate the arrests are tied to a broader investigation into the mismanagement of funds meant for the 2024 Hajj operations.
Background: A History of Financial Scrutiny
This latest action comes amid increasing oversight of NAHCON’s financial activities. In August 2024, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) raided the commission's headquarters over allegations of mismanagement involving a staggering N90 billion intervention fund allocated for Nigerian pilgrims. That raid resulted in the questioning of NAHCON’s top finance officials and procurement executives.
The EFCC's renewed interest in NAHCON follows reports of irregularities in fund disbursement and allegations of inflated contracts linked to the Hajj subsidy program. Investigators are believed to be scrutinizing financial records, procurement processes, and transactions carried out under the current administration.
Official Response and Public Reaction
EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale confirmed the operation but declined to provide specific details, stating that investigations are ongoing. He assured the public that more information would be released in due course.
Meanwhile, NAHCON officials have maintained that the commission operates within legal frameworks and will cooperate fully with investigators. In a brief statement, NAHCON’s leadership reiterated their commitment to transparency and assured stakeholders that the matter would be resolved lawfully.
The raid has sparked widespread public discourse, with many Nigerians applauding the EFCC’s proactive stance in ensuring accountability within government agencies. Others have called for a comprehensive audit of all funds related to the Hajj program, urging authorities to ensure that any misappropriated resources are recovered.
What Happens Next?
As investigations continue, analysts predict that more officials could be summoned for questioning, and additional revelations may emerge regarding the alleged financial discrepancies. The EFCC has intensified its anti-corruption drive across various government institutions, signaling a zero-tolerance approach to financial misconduct.
The unfolding developments at NAHCON are expected to have significant implications for the commission’s leadership and the future administration of Hajj funds in Nigeria.
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