EFCC Probes Alleged N7.5 Billion Diversion Involving NSCDC Contractors; Commandant General Under Scrutiny

The EFCC investigation delves into the alleged diversion of N7.5 billion by contractors associated with NSCDC Commandant General Ahmed Abubakar Audi. According to officials, the entire sum disbursed to contractors over a five-day period has been traced to Bureau De Change (BDCs), with invitations issued for questioning.

“Investigators found that payments were dispersed among 20 contractors, notably allocating N2 billion to three major contractors, each controlling five companies,” stated an EFCC representative. “These contractors received a 5% retention fee, with letters sent for their interrogation.”

“All but one contractor, a woman, have cooperated,” the official added. “She received over N1 billion, all converted to USD.”

Further cooperation led to the recovery of approximately N1 billion, which had been advanced by Audi to deter investigations. “The contractors feel compelled to cooperate, acknowledging the professionalism of EFCC operatives,” the representative noted.

In response to mounting pressure, contractors plan to seek intervention from the National Security Adviser (NSA), alleging that procurement directives bypassed them, orchestrated by Director of Procurement Victor Fayemi and Anthony Akpan.

The remaining contractor, managing Absolute Solutions, Cerise Ltd, and BNT Arm, alongside BDCs Main One Global and Double Spec Agro, is yet to comply. Another recipient, Sotitrech Computers and Jikol Multipurpose, engaged One Al-Hikma Communications for fund conversion and partial refunds.

NSCDC officials corroborate that payments, intended for executed tasks, were withheld from contractors. “If investigators demand goods, they’ll find them in our stores, unpaid contractors notwithstanding,” an NSCDC source affirmed.

Additionally, concerns arise regarding underpaid NSCDC staff during elections compared to counterparts in sister agencies.

EFCC has summoned NSCDC officers for questioning, scheduled to commence on May 2, 2024. Among those listed are Victor Olanrewaju Fayemi, Anthony Akpan Uwen, Patrick Babatunde, Comfort Danladi, Akibo Michael Olusola, Umaru Usman Karshi, Adewale Kukoyi, Joseph Ajayi Ibitulo, A.A Jonathan, and Paul Ahepa.