By Daily Review Online
The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has disclosed that the agency conducted a six-month investigation into Jerry Eze, founder of Streams of Joy International, over allegations of money laundering before eventually clearing him of any wrongdoing.
Olukoyede made this known on Wednesday at the Jerry Eze Foundation Business Grant Award Ceremony in Abuja, explaining that the probe followed intelligence reports and petitions concerning large inflows of foreign currencies into the cleric’s domiciliary account.
According to him, the EFCC became suspicious after noticing frequent deposits in dollars and pounds from multiple countries, including Colombia, the United States, Sri Lanka, and Togo.
“We work based on intelligence and petitions. At a point, I observed a domiciliary account receiving foreign currencies in large volumes. I asked, ‘Who is this individual?’ Though I had heard of him as a pastor, I had not paid much attention before then,” Olukoyede said.
He explained that the commission subsequently launched a full investigation, during which its operatives thoroughly examined financial records linked to the pastor.
Following preliminary findings, the EFCC invited Eze for questioning. However, after reviewing the evidence and engaging with him, the commission found no proof of financial misconduct.
“He came to my office and explained his activities and sources of funds. But I told him he didn’t need to explain, as we had already completed our investigation. I invited him to commend him,” Olukoyede added.
The EFCC chairman noted that the agency has a dual responsibility to both investigate financial crimes and acknowledge individuals found to have acted with integrity. His remarks drew applause from attendees, while Eze, who was present at the event, acknowledged the commendation.
Olukoyede, however, stressed that the commission would continue to monitor financial activities where necessary as part of its preventive mandate against corruption.
He also expressed concern over the involvement of some religious leaders in fraudulent practices, revealing that several clerics have been investigated and convicted. He urged religious institutions to uphold integrity and ensure that places of worship do not become avenues for illicit activities.