Ola Olukoyede, Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has confirmed the dismissal of two staff members due to alleged corruption.
During his address at the annual Criminal Law Review Conference hosted by the Rule of Law Development Foundation in Abuja on Tuesday, Olukoyede revealed that the two officials were removed from their posts two weeks ago.
He outlined that the EFCC is undergoing comprehensive reforms, with a particular focus on addressing misconduct within its ranks. Olukoyede further urged Nigerians to present any evidence of him accepting bribes.
Olukoyede stated, “Two weeks ago, I had cause to dismiss two staff. You can’t be fighting corruption and your hands are dirty.
“He who comes to equity, your hands must also be cleaned. And I say I will not only be dismissing them, I will also be prosecuting them because that is what we prosecute others for.”
He added that the EFCC is in the process of preparing legal cases against those dismissed, stating, “If an EFCC staff will not be able to stand publicly with his two hands up and challenge the entire public… whose goat have I collected? Whose bottle of water have I taken illegitimately?”
Olukoyede then challenged anyone who has evidence of him accepting bribes to come forward, reiterating his commitment to transparency, emphasising that corrupt staff would be removed and that there are occasional individuals within any organisation who may act unethically.
“I can’t stand here and say all is perfect. As many as you see, report them to us and we will do justice,” he added.
Olukoyede also shared his personal experience of being investigated for two years while serving as the EFCC’s Secretary. He further clarified that integrity is not solely about legal proficiency or advocacy but involves moral responsibility.
Olukoyede also stressed the need to review the standards, ethics, and values of legal practice, which he believes are fundamental to the EFCC’s mission of ensuring that corruption has no place in Nigeria.
Regarding criticism of the EFCC, he welcomed constructive feedback but urged that it be expressed responsibly.
“If you notice EFCC is doing anything wrong, come to us,” he said.
He highlighted the reforms initiated since his appointment, including changes to arrest and detention policies. Olukoyede shared an example where he investigated an entire ministry without detaining anyone overnight, successfully gathering all necessary information. However, he affirmed that detention would still occur if necessary, noting that all EFCC interrogation rooms have been upgraded to meet legal standards.
Frances Ibiefo
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