EFCC secures 1,688 convictions for corruption in under 9 months

According to Abdulkarim Ckukkol, acting chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the organisation has won 1,688 convictions between January and September of this year in its fight against corruption, economic and financial crimes.

This information was provided by Ckukkol on Friday at the Detective Assistant Course 4 Cadre Passing Out Parade for 331 Commission Cadets at the Nigeria Police Mobile Force Training College in Ende Hills, Akwanga.

He claims that in its 20 years of operation, the EFCC has significantly improved the state of the country.

“Through the commission’s efforts, the repugnant image of Nigeria as a 419 hub, with the ensuing detrimental impact on our economy, was destroyed.

“The investigational efforts of the Commission have resulted in the recovery of assets worth billions of Naira.

The commission obtained 3,785 convictions in total last year (2022), more than any other Nigerian law enforcement organisation did in a single year.

“The commission has counted 1,688 convictions since January. As more cases are resolved in court, the number will inevitably rise, he added.

He said that the commission would vigorously pursue its prevention mandate in addition to its enforcement actions by cooperating with many stakeholders in the battle against economic and financial crimes, corruption, and other transgressions.

He claims that the commission recently set new benchmarks in this endeavour with the launch of its radio station’s test transmission, EFCC Radio 97.3 FM.

As the commission seeks to have the public take ownership of the fight against corruption, the programme “promises a fresh vista of opportunities for public engagement,” he said.

He asked the cadets to support the Commission’s efforts to build on its prior successes and solidify its position as one of the world’s top law enforcement organisations, not only in Nigeria.

He urged them to be dedicated to the careers they chose and reminded them how important it is for the country for law enforcement, particularly in the fight against economic and financial crime.

He referred to it as “a career” that takes years to develop but might be destroyed in a split second of reckless error or poor decision-making.

“You must always maintain your concentration and preserve the ideals of the Commission, which are Integrity, Courage, Professionalism, and Collaboration, in order to finish this race and realise your dream of becoming an EFCC officer.

The Commission will not tolerate any indiscipline, he added, adding that any violations of the established code of conduct will result in the necessary punishments.

Mr. Baba-Shani Umar, the acting commandant of the EFCC Academy, Karu, Abuja, exhorted the new cadets to go out onto the threshold of new beginnings.

“I firmly believe that you should always act with integrity, courage, professionalism, and cooperation in the pursuit of excellence.

He advised, “Use these principles as your compass; they will lead you through the difficulties and victories that lie ahead.”

DCP Ikioye Orutugu, Commandant of the Police Mobile Force Training College in Ende Hill, Nasarawa, urged the cadets to put their training to good use by combating corruption in the nation.

They were cautioned by Orutugu to use their abilities and newly learned skills to give their fair share to the battle against economic and financial crimes.

As seen between the EFCC and the Nigeria Police, he also emphasised the importance of inter-agency collaboration and mutual understanding among other sister agencies for the development of the country. (NAN)