President Bola Tinubu has expressed his satisfaction with the performance of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Nigeria, citing its success in convictions, recoveries, and landmark achievements. According to a statement by the EFCC Head, Media & Publicity, Dele Oyewale, Tinubu made this commendation during the commissioning of a new Zonal Directorate of the EFCC in Awka, Anambra state. The president, represented by the Speaker, House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, emphasized that the EFCC has consistently demonstrated that the confidence reposed on it is well founded.
Tinubu pointed out that the EFCC's success is evident in its convictions, recoveries, and other achievements, which align with his administration's Renewed Hope Agenda. The agenda focuses on reforming the economy for sustained and inclusive growth and promoting good governance. The president noted that the EFCC's efforts complement his administration's goals, particularly in promoting accountability and transparency in the deployment of resources.
The Executive Chairman of the EFCC, Mr. Ola Olukoyede, restated the commission's commitment to preventive frameworks in tackling economic and financial crimes. He emphasized that the new Directorate will focus on making corrupt practices difficult by blocking avenues through which they may happen. Olukoyede noted that the commission will engage with various stakeholders, including government institutions, businesses, financial institutions, and civil society organizations, to educate and mobilize the public to own the fight against corruption.
Olukoyede highlighted the commission's achievements over the past 34 months, including receiving 49,673 petitions, investigating 39,615 cases, filing 14,476 cases in court, and securing 10,872 convictions. He also noted that the commission recorded recoveries of N1,233,612,040,411.11, $684,478,457.32, £373,905.78, and €9,343,803.66. The EFCC boss described these achievements as impressive progress.
The EFCC has made radical reforms to strengthen its processes and procedures, yielding optimal results. Olukoyede noted that these reforms include new guidelines on arrest and bail, a review of sting operations, and the establishment of the Department of Fraud Risk Assessment and Control. He emphasized that these reforms have contributed to the commission's impacts in law enforcement.
Olukoyede charged Ndi Anambra on whistleblowing, noting that the commission has established channels for members of the public to submit petitions and provide information. He emphasized that whistleblowing must be responsible and based on facts, and not an instrument for settling scores. The EFCC boss also noted that Anambra and Imo states deserve effective and responsive institutional presence, given their reputation for enterprise, innovation, and commerce.
The Governor of Anambra state, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, and his Imo state counterpart, Senator Hope Uzodinma, expressed their support for the EFCC under Olukoyede's leadership. They pledged their support as the commission opened a new Zonal Directorate in their domain. The commissioning event witnessed a massive turnout of distinguished Nigerians, including members of the National Assembly, civil society organizations, community leaders, students, and media representatives.
Key points
- President Tinubu commends EFCC's performance in convictions, recoveries, and landmark achievements.
- EFCC has made radical reforms to strengthen its processes and procedures.
- The commission has secured 10,872 convictions and recorded significant recoveries.
