The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has issued a stern warning to content creators, movie producers, and skit makers regarding the unauthorized use of EFCC-branded jackets, symbols, insignia, and other related items, urging them to desist from the practice or face legal consequences.
In a public notice released on its official Twitter page, the anti-corruption agency emphasized the need for proper authorization before featuring EFCC’s distinctive elements in their productions. “Content creators, movies, and skit producers who use EFCC-branded jackets, symbols, insignia, and other accouterments without authorization are enjoined to desist from doing so, going forward. A word is enough for the wise!” the EFCC stated.
The EFCC said it has noticed an increasing trend of its jackets and symbols being used without permission in various skits, movies, and other forms of content. The agency noted that using EFCC’s intellectual property without proper consent is not only a violation of copyright laws but also a misrepresentation of the agency’s authority and objectives.
The warning followed the resurgence of an old video titled “EFCC and Army Wahala,” which is gaining traction across different social media platforms. In a statement on its official X handle, the EFCC expressed deep concern over the misrepresentation of its operatives in such productions. “This, once again, compels the EFCC to reiterate its warning to skit makers and other social workers to desist from using the operational accouterments of the commission illegally and irresponsibly,” the statement read.
The commission took particular issue with the portrayal of its agents in the video, describing it as a “caricature of the operational etiquette of the EFCC.” It said the video depicts a shameful characterization of supposed operatives of the commission, and that unleashing terror on “suspects” is not only embarrassing but indicative of a deliberate attempt to cast shadows on the image of the EFCC. “Operatives of the EFCC are not bullies. They are trained as refined modern law enforcement officers rich in decency, civility, and respect for members of the public, including suspects of economic and financial crimes,” the EFCC said.
The agency warned that anyone found acting contrary to its advisory shall henceforth be treated as an impersonator and dealt with accordingly. It added that while it appreciates the desire by some operators in the creative sector to produce movies and skits with plots around economic and financial crimes, it is incumbent on such operators to seek the Commission’s authorisation, including vetting of scenes which purport to depict the operations of the Commission, to ensure that false or misleading messages are not passed to the public.
The EFCC’s stance is part of a broader effort to curb crime-promoting content. The commission, in collaboration with the National Film and Video Censors Board, has pledged to implement active measures to overhaul the lax operational methods prevalent in the industry, which have glorified criminals. During a meeting with the NFVCB, EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede emphasized the importance of the movie-making industry promoting morals and good values rather than perpetuating the proliferation of crime-glorifying content seen in recent times.
In addition to decrying the glamorization of internet fraud in movies and content, the commission also highlighted the disturbing trend of currency mutilation depicted in films today. “There are several skits circulating with an inaccurate portrayal of the EFCC and its officers. The NFVCB should investigate and put an end to such unprofessional practices,” Olukoyede said.
The EFCC has also taken action against individual content creators for other offenses. Operatives of the Kaduna Zonal Directorate arrested social media content creator Muhammed Kabir Sa’ad for allegedly abusing the Naira. Sa’ad reportedly posted a video on his TikTok and Instagram accounts, @youngcee0066, in which he was seen throwing Naira notes on the ground, stepping on them, and daring EFCC officials in Hausa to arrest him if they could. He was subsequently tracked and arrested in the Tudun Wada area of Kaduna State through surveillance operations. The Commission stated that Sa’ad will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.
The EFCC also arraigned Audu Ishida, also known as Baddie Kylemilli, for alleged internet fraud. Ishida faces charges of impersonation, retention of proceeds of crime, and money laundering before Justice Hauwa’u Buhari of the Federal High Court in Kaduna State. Investigations revealed that Ishida created fake online video content and dating sites to defraud victims. He obtained proceeds through gift cards, which he traded online using an FSS card app, converting them into Naira and depositing them into his bank accounts.
The EFCC reiterated that the Public Affairs Department of the Commission is adequately equipped to work with motion picture practitioners desirous of partnering with the Commission in using films and skits to educate the public, especially the youth on the dangers of economic and financial crimes.
