Seun Kuti Says American Government Forces EFCC To Focus On Yahoo Boys Over Politicians

Afrobeat star and activist Seun Kuti has called out Nigeria’s anti-graft agency, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), accusing them of focusing more on arresting internet fraudsters—commonly known as Yahoo boys—than tackling political corruption.

During a passionate Instagram Live session, Kuti claimed that the EFCC is more committed to tracking Yahoo boys due to pressure and financial support from the United States government.

In his words: “That lie they set up that EFCC is here to arrest Yahoo boys—finish. The American government pays them for that, and they have to show results. The American government no be Nigerian government wey you go give money and not show working—you must show the working. So they have to constantly prove how they’re catching Yahoo boys.”

He went further, claiming the EFCC values Yahoo boys over corrupt politicians.

“You can never stop seeing Yahoo boys because, to EFCC, you’re more important than any politician. Believe me. Let the EFCC chairman take me to his office, let’s sit face to face, and let him tell me I’m lying—that Yahoo boys aren’t more important to him than politicians. Catching Yahoo boys is his job more than going after politicians,” he said.

Kuti also took aim at the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), questioning their relevance.

“ICPC is supposed to go after politicians exclusively. What are they doing? Nothing!” he said bluntly.

This is not the first time Seun Kuti has made such bold claims. He has previously described Yahoo boys as the “legitimate children” of Nigeria’s political elite, suggesting their crimes are a reflection of the corruption at the top.

His remarks have reignited debate about the priorities of Nigeria’s anti-corruption agencies, with many questioning why political office holders often go untouched while internet fraudsters face constant crackdowns.

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