The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Nigeria’s anti-graft organisation, does not give special treatment to popular figures or celebrities. They’ve made a remarkable amount of high-profile arrests and invitations in recent years.
The EFCC has proved that it is not here to make fun of anyone, regardless of social status, including musicians, famous socialites, and comedians. Here’s a list of notable personalities in the entertainment industry who have had run-ins with the anti-corruption agency. Check out the list below.
● Obi Cubana
The EFCC summoned Obinna Iyiegbu a.k.a. Obi Cubana, a well-known businessman and socialite, for questioning on November 1st 2021. The nightlife entrepreneur was questioned by the EFCC’s Wuse Zone 6 office about alleged money laundering and tax fraud, according to reports, he was invited by the agency about two weeks before showing up. Before he was released, he received a flood of messages of support from Nigerian celebrities.
● Mompha
Ismaila Mustapha a.k.a. Mompha, a social media personality, was detained by the EFCC for allegedly laundering of over N14 billion through a business. After Mompha and his accomplice were apprehended, Ibrahim Magu, the former EFCC chairman, made the revelation. He also disclosed that the Nigerian socialite had 51 bank accounts.
● Naira Marley and Zlatan
When their popular single, Am I a Yahoo Boy, was released in 2019, the EFCC detained Naira Marley, Zlatan Ibile, and three others. The contentious song landed the musicians in the agency’s crosshairs; Zlatan and others were released after a few days, but Naira Marley was released on bond. Their photo from the arrest parade went viral.
● Pankeeroy
Pankeeroy, an Instagram comedian, was arrested by the EFCC. On April 21, 2021, the skit writer was apprehended for potential involvement in cyber fraud. Pankeeroy alegedly deceived individuals by posing as a Bitcoin trader.