International Journal of Sub-Saharan African Research (IJSSAR)

Background: Corruption is a pervasive and debilitating phenomenon that has hindered Nigeria's socio-economic development for decades. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) was established in 2003 as a specialized agency to combat economic and financial crimes, including corruption.Despite the EFCC's efforts, corruption remains a significant challenge in Nigeria, undermining the effectiveness of the Commission and perpetuating a culture of impunity. The persistence of corruption has raised concerns about the EFCC's ability to fulfill its mandate and ensure accountability for those who engage in corrupt practices.
Objective:This study investigated the impact of corruption on the performance of the EFCC in Nigeria from 2003 to 2020. The study examined the ways in which corruption has affected the EFCC's operations, including its ability to investigate and prosecute cases, recover stolen assets, and collaborate with other law enforcement agencies. It also sought to identify the challenges and opportunities facing the Commission in its efforts to combat corruption and promote good governance in Nigeria.
Method: Adopting the descriptive survey research design, 360 respondents were sampled; covering the six geo-political zones in Nigeria with a population of about 66, 921,628. Data were collected through questionnaire with a consistency co-efficient of 0.68. Results: Politically Exposed Persons have been known to interfere with the operations of the EFCC. It was also found that the EFCC has not prosecuted many politicians.
Conclusion: Crime does pay in Nigeria and that is why politician will do anything to truncate a functioning anti-corruption agency.
Unique Contribution:The study provides deeper understanding of the complex relationships among corruption, governance, and institutional performance in Nigeria.The study also provides new insights into the current method of appointment of the EFCC boss which impacts negatively on the Commission. Hopefully, this would be of benefit to policy makers in this area.
Key Recommendation: The study recommendsthat the Section 308 of the 1999 Constitution which shields the executives and their deputies from prosecution while in office be expunged to pave way for the EFCC to function independently.