EFCC warns religious leaders against diverting tithes, offerings to private businesses

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has warned religious leaders against diverting tithes, offerings, zakat and other funds collected from worshippers to private businesses.

The EFCC said such diversion could constitute a criminal offence where the funds are collected for specific religious or charitable purposes but are instead used for personal or unrelated business activities.

The commission gave the warning while addressing concerns over the management of funds raised by religious organisations.

According to the EFCC, religious leaders and administrators entrusted with such funds have a responsibility to ensure that they are used for the purposes for which they were collected.

The commission said the misuse of funds belonging to religious organisations could attract criminal investigation where there is evidence of fraud, conversion or other financial offences.

It urged religious organisations to maintain proper financial records and ensure transparency in the management of their funds.

The EFCC also warned individuals entrusted with donations, tithes, offerings and other contributions against using such money for personal transactions or private ventures without proper authorisation.

The commission said it would continue to investigate suspected financial crimes involving funds belonging to individuals, organisations and institutions, irrespective of their religious affiliation.