Former EFCC boss Olukoyede opens up about his two-year investigation over corruption allegations, shedding light on the challenges faced.
Ola Olukoyede, the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), revealed that he was under investigation by the anti-graft agency for two years due to allegations of corruption.
On Monday, during the inauguration of the sixth Annual Criminal Law Review Conference hosted by the Rule of Law Development Foundation in Abuja, Mr. Olukoyede highlighted his dedication to promoting transparency and accountability within the EFCC.
He additionally revealed that two EFCC operatives were recently dismissed after being found guilty of corrupt practices. These operatives, let go two weeks prior, are now facing prosecution, highlighting the agency’s firm zero-tolerance policy towards corruption within its own ranks.
We are organizing the case files of some individuals we’ve dismissed. An EFCC employee should be ready to stand confidently and ask openly: Whose goat have I wrongly taken? Whose bottle of water have I acquired improperly?
I’ve told Nigerians this: if anyone has ever given me even a single kobo during my work, I invite them to speak up. I’m open to being challenged on this point. I won’t be swayed by such things easily. If any staff member is corrupt, I’ll ensure they leave the organization.
He stated, “Some people might be overly enthusiastic. Among every group of 12, there will be a Judas. I can’t claim everything is perfect here. If you encounter any issues or individuals causing trouble, let us know and we will address them appropriately.”
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Mr. Olukoyede mentioned that during his tenure as EFCC secretary, he underwent a two-year investigation.
“I am not merely serving as the chairman of EFCC; I have experienced being on the other side. Having undergone a two-year investigation myself, I understand what it means to investigate others. My primary goal is to leverage this position to stimulate economic growth while adhering strictly to the rule of law,” he stated.
He emphasized that integrity is essential for survival, even in the legal profession.
Integrity goes beyond the law and your skill in crafting persuasive arguments. It’s about aligning legal practice with morality, guided by a conscience that urges you to act rightly. In essence, integrity is rooted in doing what’s right. Additionally, ethics, values, and standards within legal practice should undergo regular evaluation as well.
He stated, “These are crucial to me because the EFCC’s role is to prevent corruption from taking root in our national life.”
Mr. Olukoyede expressed that he appreciated constructive criticism regarding the agency.
