The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is facing backlash following allegations of irregularities in its recently concluded nationwide car auction.
The week-long exercise, which ended on January 27, 2025, has sparked widespread criticism, with bidders accusing the process of being manipulated.
Several participants took to social media, claiming that bids for mid-range Lexus SUVs and other vehicles skyrocketed to as much as N330 billion, raising suspicions of foul play.
Some users alleged they won their bids only to find their names replaced, while others reported sudden technical glitches that blocked access to the auction site.
A bidder, Daniel Momoh, claimed his successful bids for four vehicles were nullified without explanation.
Another participant, #Kennylekel, accused the EFCC of orchestrating a last-minute website crash to favour selected bidders.
Similar concerns were raised by other users, with one describing the auction as a “sham” designed to benefit insiders.
In response, EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale dismissed the allegations, stating that the commission had no direct involvement in the bidding process, which was managed by government-licensed auctioneers.
He suggested that some bidders may have deliberately placed unrealistic bids to sabotage the process.
The auction involved over 850 forfeited vehicles recovered from financial crime cases, with the EFCC previously assuring the public of a fair and transparent process.
However, the outcry from participants has raised concerns about accountability, prompting calls for an independent investigation into the auction’s credibility.