Fact Check: No Evidence Supports Claim of EFCC Discovering $800 Million at Former Abia State Governor’s Home

An image circulating on social media platforms alleges that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) uncovered $800 million in cash stashed at the residence of former Abia state governor, Okezie Ikpeazu.

The caption accompanying the image states:

“Breaking News: The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) Discovered 800 Million Dollars Cash Stack At The Home Of Former Abia State Governor; Okezie Ikpeazu

“Some EFCC officials stormed the House of Former Abia state Governor; Okezie Ikpeazu and recovered 800 Million dollars cash stacked in his house – Taraba Voice”

However, a fact check reveals several discrepancies:

The image is not recent and is unrelated to the EFCC or Ikpeazu. A reverse image search traces it back to 2007, depicting a police raid in Mexico City where $206 million in cash, not $800 million, was seized from drug smugglers.

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The image shows various foreign currencies, not just dollars, including euros and pounds.

The claim attributes the information source to “Taraba Voice,” yet there is no such report on the platform, which has not posted since February 9, 2020. Additionally, no credible media outlet has reported on this incident.

The EFCC has not released any statement or report confirming the discovery of $800 million at Ikpeazu’s residence.

Verdict: False

The image is old and depicts a drug raid in Mexico City, not a discovery by the EFCC at Ikpeazu’s home. There is no evidence supporting the claim, rendering it false.