EFCC Has Apologised To Me!” – Reuben Abati Breaks Silence On Alleged Begging Scandal

The claim originated from Wike’s media aide, Lere Olayinka, who alleged that Abati and his wife approached the former Rivers State Governor for funds to resolve an issue with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Responding in a statement on Saturday, Abati called the accusation baseless and clarified that he has never requested money from Wike, nor has he ever acted as a spokesperson for former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi. In fact, he said, he doesn’t even have Amaechi’s phone number.

“I have never approached Minister Wike for financial assistance — that allegation is completely false,” Abati said. “If anyone, including a former associate, went to him falsely using my name, it was done without my knowledge or consent. That would amount to fraud, and Minister Wike is right to call it out if it happened.”

Abati further explained that while he was once invited by the EFCC for questioning — a process he described as routine and legal — he was never asked to return any funds and eventually received an apology from the agency under its former Chairman, Ibrahim Magu.

On Olayinka’s comments, Abati added: “Lere Olayinka has grossly misused the term ‘hubris’. A quick check in the dictionary would’ve helped. I won’t dignify him with further responses — he is not my equal. If there is to be any meaningful engagement, it should come directly from his principal.”

Clarifying his absence from The Morning Show on Friday, Abati explained he was attending a pre-arranged book review event for “Oprah Benson – Live and Legend”, a 550-page biography authored by Dr. Udu Yakubu, not avoiding any debate as suggested.

He also reaffirmed his position on Wike, emphasizing: “As a public official, Minister Wike is not above scrutiny. It is our duty to hold those in public office accountable.”

Addressing past criticisms involving the late Senator Buruji Kashamu, Abati maintained: “Kashamu was never convicted of any crime in Nigeria or abroad. Continually raising unproven allegations against the dead is not only unethical but in poor taste.”

Abati concluded by expressing gratitude to his colleagues — Rufai Oseni, Vimbai, and the entire Arise TV team — and to his wife, Kikelomo Atanda-Owo Abati, for their support. He ended with a call for integrity in public discourse and transparency in governance.