Mr. Ola Olukoyede, the head of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has announced the commission’s intention to pursue countries outside Nigeria that are hoarding unlawfully transferred funds from the nation. During a Road Walk that happened in Abuja to celebrate the International Anti-Corruption Day in 2023, Olukoyede made a revelation that nations harbouring illicitly transferred funds from Nigeria are evidently more corrupt than Nigeria itself. This pronouncement shed light on the magnitude of corruption beyond Nigerian borders.
He issued a stern alert, declaring that the Commission shall caution any nation that hoards Nigeria’s riches. Every member of the global community should be prepared to face its pursuit, aimed at retrieving what rightfully belongs to the country. The individuals harbouring Nigerian ill-gotten wealth exhibit a higher level of corruption than the nation itself. By hoarding the funds extracted from Nigeria’s coffers and stashing them overseas, they not only accept the money but also linger atop it, thereby epitomizing a greater degree of corruption.
Shifting emphasis towards preventive measures.
The Commission’s pursuit shall encompass these culprits as it endeavours to reclaim the funds, aiming to foster Nigeria progress and development. The EFCC Boss emphasized that, under his administration, the EFCC’s new era will focus on prevention as a priority and actively discourage any behaviours that foster corrupt practices. The main agenda of the EFCC encompasses three distinct policy goals. Firstly, the focal point of its efforts in Nigeria ongoing battle against corruption is to shift emphasis towards preventive measures, as it firmly believes that prevention surpasses the need for subsequent treatment.
Also, the Commission aims to champion authentic enterprises, fostering an environment that encourages their growth and success. It is also determined to establish a culture of fiscal responsibility and discipline within the Nigerian surroundings. The objective is to obstruct any existing loopholes by actively promoting equality in opportunities. The Commission’s approach does not involve waiting until money is pilfered before taking action. In fact, if individuals have intentions to steal ten naira, it proactively aims to intercept seven naira, reducing the amount that will be pursued to merely three naira.
No nation can progress if it accepts corruption.
This strategy ensures a more streamlined and manageable process for the EFCC. He added that they will relentlessly pursue those individuals who have intentions of stealing Nigeria funds. In an age of fresh financial planning, he reassured that the EFCC has communicated its intentions to all its financial custodians, declaring its commitment to collaborate with them. Everyone in the Commission pledges to diligently track every penny that is disbursed, ensuring that these funds are utilized for the betterment of the Nigerian populace rather than just a privileged few.
Nigeria’s common wealth bestows its blessings upon various groups of people such as students, workers, old individuals, and retirees, leading to their utmost advantage. No nation can progress if it accepts corruption. While some individuals may hold the belief that corruption is insignificant, the EFCC is here to affirm that it is detrimental. Despite pessimistic views on Nigeria’s future, the country is far from being destroyed. Corruption will be vigorously fought until it is completely eradicated, he further emphasized.
Delays inadvertently foster an environment conducive to theft.
Seeking a unified front in the battle against corruption, he appealed for the Judiciary, Executive, and Legislators to extend their steadfast backing. In addition, Comrade Uchenna Ekwe, who is the Head Country operation NLC and a representative of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), highlighted the imperative for the judiciary to rise to the occasion and provide unwavering support to the EFCC. He expressed his disappointment over the lengthy delays in resolving financial crime cases, emphasizing that such delays inadvertently foster an environment conducive to theft and impede the effectiveness of the EFCC.
Related Link
EFCC: Website
