The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has terminated the employment of two staff members accused of corruption, marking a significant stride in its internal accountability efforts. This announcement was made by the EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, during the annual criminal law review conference organized by the Rule of Law Development Foundation in Abuja.
Commitment to Integrity
Olukoyede reiterated the agency’s commitment to reform and integrity, stating, “You can’t be fighting corruption with dirty hands.” He confirmed that the dismissed employees are currently under investigation, with case files being prepared for their prosecution.
He also challenged the public to present evidence of bribery against him, emphasizing his zero-tolerance stance on corruption within the agency.
Key Reforms and Improved Practices
The EFCC has introduced several reforms to enhance efficiency and transparency. Among these is a revised arrest and detention policy, which discourages overnight detentions during investigations.
“I have investigated an entire ministry—ministers, directors, and all—without detaining anyone overnight, yet obtained all the needed information,” Olukoyede explained.
Additionally, the agency has streamlined its prosecution process, capping the number of charges in cases at 15 to ensure focus and diligence. Olukoyede emphasized, “No case should fail due to lack of diligent prosecution,” and revealed that he personally reviews case files, especially for high-profile cases.
Strengthening the Rule of Law
Reflecting on his two-year experience under investigation, Olukoyede noted that this period deepened his understanding of fairness and adherence to the rule of law in EFCC operations.
His primary objective, he said, is to foster economic growth while ensuring the agency operates with integrity and morality. He also welcomed public scrutiny, urging critics to offer constructive feedback rather than undermine the institution.
Human Rights and Legal Compliance
The EFCC has also upgraded its interrogation rooms to align with court rulings, ensuring that investigations respect human rights.
The chairman highlighted a recent legal victory for the agency: On November 15, the Supreme Court dismissed a lawsuit by 16 states challenging the constitutionality of the EFCC Act. Justice Uwani Abba-Aji, leading a seven-member panel, ruled that the Act does not require ratification by state assemblies.
Rebuilding Public Trust
Olukoyede concluded by emphasizing the EFCC’s determination to rebuild public trust in its fight against corruption. He urged Nigerians to engage with the agency constructively and to recognize its ongoing efforts to operate transparently and effectively.
Joseph Daudu, coordinator of the Rule of Law Development Foundation, lauded the conference as a vital platform for assessing the criminal justice system’s effectiveness, from crime detection to case adjudication.
With these reforms and initiatives, the EFCC aims to bolster its reputation as a credible and transparent anti-corruption body.
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