Emmanuel Ochayi
In a declaration during the commemoration of the 2023 International Anti-Corruption Day, Mr. Ola Olukoyede, the Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), vowed commitment to combat corruption in Nigeria.
Speaking in Abuja on Saturday, December 9, 2023, during a Road Walk event, Olukoyede emphasized the imperative of curbing corruption to pave the way for the nation’s growth and development.
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Addressing a diverse crowd gathered at the Abuja Zonal Command of the EFCC, Olukoyede asserted, “We are going to give sleepless nights to those stealing our money. We are going to remove opportunities for corruption.”
He highlighted the agency’s determination to track every released fund, ensuring accountability and halting the misappropriation of resources intended for the country’s advancement.
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Expressing concern over the detrimental effects of corruption on Nigerians, Olukoyede articulated the EFCC’s renewed focus on combating corruption to stimulate growth and development across all sectors of the economy. “We are tired of corruption in Nigeria. Our youths must have job opportunities,” he stressed.
On the theme of the 2023 International Anti-Corruption Day, which revolves around ‘UNCAC@20: Uniting the World against Corruption,’ Olukoyede emphasized the global necessity to unite against corruption. He pledged the EFCC’s intention to collaborate with the international community to recover looted funds stashed abroad. “Those who are keeping looted funds abroad are more corrupt than us. We are going to go after them,” he affirmed.
The Road Walk, which traversed major roads in Abuja, witnessed an impressive turnout of Nigerians from diverse sectors, including EFCC staff, civil society organizations, representatives of the Nigerian Labour Congress, police, armed forces, National Youth Service Corps, women groups, media, and other stakeholders. Banners condemning corruption adorned the event, amidst singing and dancing, reflecting the collective stance against corruption.
Commenting on the event, the Inspector General of Police, represented by the Commissioner of Police, Federal Capital Territory, Haruna. G. Garba, expressed enthusiasm, describing the Road Walk as a demonstration of hope for Nigeria’s progress. “If we can fight corruption and other crimes in Nigeria, it will be better for our country,” he remarked.
High-ranking officials, including the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, voiced their support for the EFCC’s anti-corruption crusade, urging Nigerians to join hands in making Nigeria corruption-free.
Similar Road Walk events were conducted across all fourteen Zonal Commands of the EFCC. In Benin-City, the colorful procession, marked by anti-corruption messages and banners, demonstrated a collective call to action against corruption. Kanu Idagu, speaking on behalf of Olukoyede, stressed the importance of collective efforts in combating this common threat.
In conclusion, the EFCC’s stance against corruption under Olukoyede’s leadership underscores a renewed commitment to rid Nigeria of corrupt practices, signaling a united front against this pervasive issue.
“All over the world, corruption is a threat to the growth and development of individuals and nations. No one is immune to the contagion of corruption, which is why nations are united in finding solutions to the common ailment.”
