The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has suspended one of its senior prosecutors, Samuel Chime, following allegations that he collected bribes to interfere with corruption cases. The action came after the commission received several petitions from civil society groups, non-governmental organisations and private individuals accusing him of serious misconduct.
The EFCC chairman, Ola Olukoyede, approved the setting up of an internal panel to investigate the claims. Findings from the panel reportedly showed that Chime accepted financial inducements that affected the handling of some cases under his control. Sources within the commission said the development angered the EFCC leadership, which viewed the matter as a threat to the agency’s reputation.
Following the suspension, the commission reportedly sought adjournments in courts where Chime was handling cases. Judges were informed that he was on sick leave, a move said to be aimed at preventing damage to the image of the agency while internal actions continued. Other prosecutors have now been directed to take over both ongoing and concluded cases previously handled by him, pending further review.
Chime was involved in several high-profile prosecutions across different Federal High Courts in Abuja, Kano and Port Harcourt, handling cases linked to alleged financial crimes over several years. His role placed him in a position of wide authority within the commission, which investigators now believe he abused.
Some of the petitions against him also accused him of filing similar cases in different courts as a way to frustrate defendants, an action said to go against standard prosecutorial practice and the commission’s internal rules. EFCC officials said all allegations are being carefully examined as part of a broader review ordered by the chairman.
There are indications that the suspension may not be the final step, as sources disclosed that dismissal is being considered depending on the outcome of the ongoing review process. The EFCC has not yet issued a formal public statement on the matter but internal sources confirmed that disciplinary procedures are underway.