EFCC Issues ₦100k Fine or 2-Year Jail Threat for Anyone Lying to Anti-Corruption Agents

EFCC warning notice about fines and jail for giving false information to investigators

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has warned Nigerians that providing false information to the agency carries severe penalties, including a fine of ₦100,000, imprisonment for up to two years, or both fine and jail time. In a recent public statement, the EFCC made clear:

“Giving false information could land you a fine of ₦100,000, imprisonment for up to 2 years, or both fine and imprisonment.”

According to the commission, this stern reminder forms part of its broader effort to uphold transparency and discourage obstruction in anti-corruption investigations. Under the EFCC Establishment Act and related statutes, knowingly supplying misleading statements or fabricated documents is a criminal offence.

The EFCC statement stressed that cooperation from the public is crucial to the success of its operations. Nigerians are urged to provide truthful and accurate information when contacted by investigators and to report suspected financial crimes without fear of reprisal. The commission warned:

“We will not hesitate to enforce the law against anyone who seeks to mislead our agents or impede justice.”

Legal experts note that Section 43 of the EFCC Establishment Act empowers the commission to prosecute offences related to false statements during investigations. Penalties were designed to deter individuals from obstructing probes into money laundering, fraud, and other financial crimes. Analysts say the move underscores the government’s commitment to strengthening institutional integrity and public confidence.

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Citizens are also reminded that whistle-blowers and honest informants enjoy statutory protections under the same Act, safeguarding them from victimization or malicious prosecution. The EFCC has set up multiple hotlines and online portals to facilitate anonymous reporting of fraudulent activities.

By highlighting both the punitive and protective provisions of the law, the commission aims to foster a culture of accountability. It remains to be seen how strictly the new warning will be enforced, but observers believe that increased prosecutions for false reporting could enhance the effectiveness of Nigeria’s fight against grand corruption.