“We now have too many pastors, imams in our financial crime files” – EFCC Chairman

The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Olanipekun Olukoyede, has called for a review of religious titles used by pastors, imams and other religious leaders facing financial crime cases.

Olukoyede made the call while speaking at the 2026 Second Council Meeting of the Nigeria Inter-Religious Council (NIREC) in Abuja.

According to him, the EFCC’s case files contain numerous suspects identified by religious titles, with some already convicted and serving prison sentences.

He questioned why individuals convicted of financial crimes continue to be addressed as pastors or imams, urging Nigerians to focus on their conduct rather than the titles they carry.

“I advocated for a review of the titles we give to men of God. Maybe, if it is possible for us to remove those titles, pastor and imam. You know why? I have my case files full of these titles.

And some of them have been convicted and they are in jail. And while in jail, they still refer to them as pastor and imam. So it is something for us to really think about,” Olukoyede stated.

Olukoyede also recalled an encounter with a suspect who introduced himself using several religious titles when he appeared before the EFCC.

He stressed that religious positions would not shield anyone from investigation or prosecution over financial crimes.

“People who carry the spirit of God, who do the right thing. Because the spirit of God is by their fruits, not their appearance. Not what we call ourselves. It’s by the fruits.

So if you think you’re a Christian or you’re a pastor here, and you commit financial crime, I will be your enemy. I won’t be your friend,” he added.

The EFCC boss also urged religious leaders to promote integrity and accountability, stressing that financial crime has no religious identity.