The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Ola Olukoyede, has revealed that popular cleric Jerry Eze was investigated for six months over suspected money laundering before being cleared of any wrongdoing.
Olukoyede made the disclosure during the Jerry Eze Foundation Business Grant Award Ceremony in Abuja, explaining that the investigation was launched after intelligence reports and petitions raised concerns about unusual foreign currency inflows into the pastor’s domiciliary account.
According to him, the EFCC detected multiple foreign transactions originating from countries such as Colombia, the United States, Sri Lanka, and Togo, which prompted further scrutiny.
He stated that the commission carried out a detailed review of the financial records before inviting the cleric for questioning. During the engagement, Jerry Eze reportedly explained the sources of the funds and how they were being used for charitable and outreach activities.
Olukoyede said the EFCC did not find any evidence of financial misconduct after completing its investigation. Instead, he noted that the agency decided to commend the cleric based on the findings.
The EFCC chairman emphasized that the commission operates strictly on intelligence and petitions, and its investigations are designed to ensure transparency in financial activities across all sectors.
He also stressed that while the agency clears individuals when no wrongdoing is found, it will continue to monitor financial systems to prevent abuse and detect illicit transactions early.
Olukoyede further warned about the involvement of some religious leaders in fraudulent activities, stating that several clerics have been investigated and convicted in the past. He urged religious institutions to maintain integrity and avoid becoming platforms for financial crimes.
The revelation sparked reactions at the event, with attendees applauding the outcome of the investigation and the commission’s transparency in handling the case.
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