The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has acknowledged complaints from Nigerians, regarding the recently concluded public auction of forfeited vehicles, promising a review of grievances.
The commission had announced an e-auction of vehicles, planned for January 27, 2025, from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm, which will be managed by EFCC-approved auctioneers.
Although, the commission emphasized its commitment to transparency in accordance with relevant laws, including the EFCC Act and Public Procurement Act, accusations of fraud have surfaced on social media following allegations of manipulation and cronyism in the auction of cars.
In a statement issued by Dele Oyewale, Head of Media and Publicity on Thursday, the EFCC admitted to receiving reports of technical difficulties and other issues faced by participants during the auction.
It agreed that the complaints include inaccessibility of the auction website, sudden disconnection after bid submissions, and excessively high bid prices.
The EFCC confirmed that its monitoring teams observed some of these challenges and relayed them to the auctioneers for corrective measures.
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However, the commission clarified that it could not directly intervene while the auction was ongoing, as it had assigned the process to accredited and licensed auctioneers in compliance with the Proceeds of Crime (Recovery and Management) Act, 2022, and the Public Procurement Act, 2007.
The commission suggested that the overwhelming number of participants—over 4 million—may have overloaded the online platforms, exacerbated by unstable internet service in some regions.
While assuring the public of its commitment to transparency, the EFCC stated that it is currently awaiting a report from the auctioneers and will review genuine complaints to ensure that no participant is unfairly disadvantaged.
It added that those who successfully followed the process and won bids will receive their vehicles as planned.
The EFCC reiterated that its sole interest in the auction process is to ensure fairness and maximize value for the nation.