The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has vehemently denied any involvement in allegations of fraud amounting to N10 billion. These allegations are currently under investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) concerning his personal assistant, Andrew Torhile Uchi.
A statement issued by Segun Imohiosen, the Director of Information in the SGF’s office, on Monday, clarified that Senator Akume has no connection to the ongoing probe. The statement emphasized that Akume’s office is fully committed to principles of transparency, accountability, and integrity, distancing itself from any alleged misconduct.
“The attention of the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF) has been drawn to the ongoing investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) involving Hon. Andrew Torhile Uchi, Personal Assistant to the SGF, regarding allegations of corruption, bribery, and money laundering,” the statement reads. “It is imperative to state categorically that the leadership of the OSGF is in no way involved in the alleged misconduct.”
The statement also expressed appreciation for the EFCC’s diligence in investigating the matter and urged the agency to ensure that anyone found guilty is held accountable.
Andrew Torhile Uchi has been under EFCC investigation since last week, following a petition that raised concerns about properties he allegedly acquired in various locations including Abuja, Jos, Makurdi, Gboko, and Wannune, totaling over N6 billion. EFCC officials have traced approximately N1.6 billion of the funds allegedly used to purchase luxury cars across multiple cities, including Abuja, Lagos, Jos, and Makurdi, with the transactions passing through four banks.
Further investigations have revealed that two Bureau de Change operators are also under scrutiny for their potential involvement in the alleged money laundering scheme, as some of the funds in question were allegedly channeled through their businesses.
The EFCC is seeking court approval to extend its probe to include Uchi’s properties in other parts of the country to trace the origin of the funds used for these acquisitions.
Uchi, who remains in EFCC custody, has reportedly made confessions regarding the source of the funds, which are suspected to be linked to bribery.
While the investigation is ongoing, the SGF has urged the public to avoid speculation and refrain from drawing premature conclusions, appreciating their understanding and continued support during this process.
