The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has refuted claims of arresting a radio presenter during a live broadcast at Urban Radio 94.5FM, Enugu, on Monday.
In a statement released on Tuesday, EFCC spokesman Dele Oyewale clarified that, contrary to assertions made by the radio station, the agency’s operatives did not interfere with the station’s equipment.
He explained that a team of four EFCC officers visited Urban Radio 94.5FM to invite Favour Ekoh, the host of the program “Prime Time,” who is under investigation by the Enugu Zonal Directorate for his alleged involvement in a N700 million Ponzi scheme affecting 50 victims.
The victims reported that Ekoh enticed them into investing in a scheme called “Life Trading” through a company named Leverage Index Limited, promising a 10 percent return on their investments after a specified period. However, after depositing their funds at the company’s office located at No. 1, Colliery Street, Okpara Avenue, Enugu, they alleged that the business closed without returning their principal or any investment returns. As such, Ekoh became the sole point of contact for the victims.
Oyewale noted that when the EFCC operatives approached the station with an arrest warrant for Ekoh, they identified themselves but were instead detained by station staff. In response to this obstruction, the operatives called for assistance, leading to the subsequent arrest of the Station Manager, Mr. Bamikole Owoyomi, Ekoh, and two security guards who had confined them.
The spokesman emphasized that Ekoh was not arrested while on air, nor was there any disruption to the station’s lawful operations. He confirmed that no equipment was damaged, and all parties were released after providing statements at the EFCC Office in Enugu.
The EFCC values the media as a vital component in the fight against economic and financial crimes. However, it deemed the unlawful hindrance of its officers’ duties by station personnel as unacceptable. Oyewale also expressed concerns regarding Ekoh’s professional integrity, given his significant role as a prime suspect in a Ponzi scheme impacting numerous individuals.
The EFCC has called on the International Press Institute and the Nigerian Union of Journalists to investigate the radio station’s conduct concerning ethical standards and professional integrity.
