Tinubu Taps EFCC’s ‘Star Prosecutor’ Rotimi Oyedepo as New Director of Public Prosecutions to Spearhead 2026 Anti-Graft War

In a major move to strengthen the nation’s legal arsenal, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN) as the Director of Public Prosecutions of the Federation (DPPF).

The announcement, signals a significant shift in the Federal Government’s approach to criminal justice. Oyedepo, who has built a formidable reputation as the “engine room” of the EFCC’s legal department, will now take charge of all public prosecutions on behalf of the Federation.

Oyedepo’s track record is distinguished by his role in securing some of the most complex convictions in Nigeria’s recent history, particularly in cases involving money laundering and financial malfeasance. His appointment to the Federal Ministry of Justice is widely interpreted as an effort by the Tinubu administration to ensure that the newly implemented 2025 Tax Acts are backed by a robust and uncompromising prosecutorial team.

“The President’s choice of Mr. Oyedepo is a clear message that the era of ‘open-ended investigations’ is coming to an end,” a senior official at the Ministry of Justice stated. “We are moving into a phase of decisive legal action. With his experience at the EFCC, the new DPPF understands exactly how to close the loop on financial crimes.”

Beyond tax enforcement, Oyedepo is expected to overhaul the prosecution of terrorism-financing cases, which have become a priority following the recent joint security operations in the North-West. Legal analysts suggest his first major task in 2026 will be to review several pending high-profile corruption cases to ensure they meet the rigorous standards required for swift convictions.

The appointment has been met with mixed reactions. While anti-corruption advocates have hailed it as a “masterstroke” for accountability, some opposition figures have expressed concerns that a “career prosecutor” at the helm of the DPPF might lead to a more aggressive legal stance against political dissent—a claim the Federal Government has already dismissed as “baseless distraction.”

As Oyedepo prepares to take his oath of office, the legal community remains watchful. His leadership will be tested immediately as the government prepares to roll out its 2026 fiscal and security agenda.