EFCC Arrests Plateau Speaker Moses Sule, 14 Lawmakers Over ₦2.5B Money Laundering Scandal

In a major crackdown on political corruption, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested the former Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, Hon. Moses Thomas Sule, alongside 14 other ex-lawmakers. The arrests, which took place on June 17, 2025, were carried out by operatives of the EFCC’s Makurdi Zonal Command.

According to official reports from the anti-graft agency, the group is being investigated for alleged money laundering connected to the suspicious procurement of luxury vehicles worth over ₦2.5 billion during their tenure in the 9th Assembly of Plateau State.

Allegations of Misappropriation and Money Laundering

The EFCC disclosed that the arrests followed a series of petitions from concerned citizens who raised red flags over the outrageous expenditure on vehicles, which appeared grossly inflated and potentially fraudulent. Investigations revealed that the procurement process lacked transparency and may have violated provisions of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

EFCC spokespersons indicated that the former Speaker and his co-accused allegedly conspired to siphon public funds through contracts for the purchase of official vehicles, many of which were either overpriced or never delivered. These transactions were executed towards the end of their legislative term, fueling suspicion of last-minute looting.

Who Is Moses Thomas Sule?

Hon. Moses Thomas Sule served as Speaker of the 9th Plateau State House of Assembly. He assumed office in June 2023 and was known for his close political ties within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state. His leadership of the Assembly was marred by political tension and controversy, including internal party disputes.

EFCC’s Ongoing War Against Corruption

This development is part of the EFCC’s broader campaign against corruption and financial crimes involving public officials. The Commission has reaffirmed its commitment to holding leaders accountable and recovering looted public funds.

Speaking on the arrests, an EFCC official stated:

“This operation underscores our resolve to cleanse the public sector of financial malpractice. We are committed to ensuring transparency, accountability, and justice.”

The arrested individuals are currently being interrogated at the Makurdi Zonal Command. They are expected to be arraigned in court once investigations are concluded and charges are formally filed.

The news of the arrests has sparked wide reactions across social media and political circles in Plateau State and beyond. Civil society organizations and anti-corruption advocates have commended the EFCC for acting swiftly. Many Nigerians expressed frustration over recurring corruption scandals in state assemblies, calling for stricter checks and institutional reforms.

Legal experts suggest that if convicted under the Money Laundering Act, the accused could face heavy fines, imprisonment, and disqualification from holding public office. The EFCC has urged citizens to continue reporting suspicious financial dealings as part of a collaborative effort to combat corruption.