Anti-graft activist demands accountability and transparency from the incoming EFCC chair

The newly appointed EFCC Chairman, Mr. Olanipekun Olukoyede, has been encouraged by the Chief Executive of Connected Development (CODE), Mr. Hamzat Lawal, to respect the commission’s independence in its operations.

The appeal was made by anti-corruption crusader Lawal on Thursday in Abuja during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria.

Olukoyede was chosen on Thursday to lead the Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC) after President Bola Tinubu gave his approval.

Senate approval is required for the nomination.

This occurs over four months after Tinubu suspended Mr. Abdulrasheed Bawa, the former head of the anti-graft agency.

Lawal says that the incoming EFCC chairman should protect the commission’s independence and make sure it is not subject to undue political influence when doing its job.

“To sustain public trust and credibility, the EFCC must maintain transparency and accountability throughout its operations.

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In order to encourage people to come forward with information, it is essential to provide strong protection for whistleblowers who reveal corruption.

The incoming EFCC chief should find a method to streamline these procedures, he added, adding that the efficient recovery and forfeiture of assets obtained through corruption are crucial.

In addition, Lawal asked him to involve youth and the general public in all anti-corruption initiatives through awareness campaigns and education, both of which are crucial for creating a society free from corruption.

In order to establish a complete strategy for combating corruption, he advised, “As an anti-corruption activist, my advice for him is to enhance collaboration between the agency and civil society organisations, and indeed, other government agencies.”

In order to help the EFCC carry out its mission and promote a culture of continual learning and adaptation to handle changing forms of corruption, he also needs to give strong and moral leadership, the author continued. (NAN)