The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has defended its operational tactics, insisting it is legally empowered to forcefully enter premises to arrest suspects linked to financial crimes.

Speaking during an exclusive interview on Sunday Politics on Channels Television, EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, said the agency’s methods are in line with both Nigerian law and international practice. “Look, if I had to break down a door for me to effect an arrest, I would do that. And you see the FBI do that, you see the NCA do that,” Olukoyede said.

“So why is our law different?” The EFCC has faced criticism over its approach to arrests, especially involving suspected cyber criminals, with critics accusing the agency of unprofessional conduct compared to similar bodies abroad.

Olukoyede rejected the claims, stating that the EFCC operates according to global best practices and has earned international recognition. He called on Nigerians to support local institutions. “It’s important for us to appreciate the institutions we have in Nigeria and make them work. Foreigners will not do it for us,” he said.

He noted that the commission has worked with foreign agencies such as the FBI and the UK’s National Crime Agency, adding that its efforts have been acknowledged internationally. “I have had cause to receive the Director of the FBI in my office to acknowledge what we do here,” he said.

“So if foreigners acknowledge what we do, what about Nigerians?” Acknowledging that no institution is perfect, Olukoyede appealed for public cooperation, describing the EFCC’s work as essential to national development. “You are not going to get a perfect institution anywhere in the world.

We have our shortcomings, but with our modest achievements, Nigerians should support us because what we do is for Nigeria,” he said. He further explained that the law empowers the EFCC to make arrests without a warrant under specific conditions. “The law — the badge I carry — is my warrant to arrest anytime, any day, under the conditions of the law,” Olukoyede added.