The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has admitted to significant technical glitches experienced during the recent public auction of forfeited vehicles but attributed many of these issues to poor network connectivity.
The Commission has also pledged to conduct a thorough review of the complaints received, ensuring that such issues do not recur in future auctions.
In a press statement, signed by EFCC Head of Media & Publicity , Dele Oyewale, the anti-graft agency highlighted the unsatisfactory experiences of some Nigerians who took part in the auction conducted by accredited auctioneers on behalf of the Commission.
According to at the EFCC, the reported problems were both significant and widespread.
Oyewale said, “Among the complaints we have received are the inability of some citizens to access the websites of the auctioneers, being shut out from the platforms after submitting bids, and encountering what many described as outrageous bid prices”.
Relevant departments within the EFCC monitored the exercise closely and confirmed the presence of these technical glitches. Despite their observations, the Commission could not intervene directly while the auction was ongoing, adhering to legal provisions outlined in Sections 4(a)(b) of the Proceeds of Crime (Recovery and Management) Act, 2022, and Section 55 of the Public Procurement Act, 2007.
Oyewale admitted that the sheer number of participants, over 4 million, likely overwhelmed the online facilities provided by the auctioneers. Additionally, unstable internet services in various parts of the country exacerbated the difficulties faced by bidders.
“While we cannot make excuses for the auctioneers, it is possible that the high number of participants stretched the carrying capacity of their online systems. Unstable internet connectivity also contributed significantly to the problems experienced” he explained.
Despite the challenges, the EFCC has said that it remains committed to addressing the grievances raised by the public. The Commission is currently awaiting the final report from the auctioneers and has promised a comprehensive review of all genuine complaints.
Oyewale said, “The complaints arising from the exercise are unfortunate and detract from our plan to provide an online auction platform that ensures seamless and transparent participation. However, we assure the public that every genuine complaint will be thoroughly reviewed to ensure no one is short-changed.”
The EFCC emphasized that those who successfully navigated the process without encountering glitches and emerged as winners will definitely receive their allocated vehicles. This commitment underscores the Commission’s dedication to fairness and transparency.
Moving forward, the EFCC aims to enhance the efficiency and reliability of its auction processes. By learning from the current setbacks and implementing necessary improvements, the Commission hopes to restore public confidence and encourage greater participation in future auctions.
Oyewale reiterated “Our only interest in the public auction is to ensure that the assets are disposed of in the most transparent manner and that the nation gets value for the assets. This principle cannot be compromised under any circumstance.”
