Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has threatened to expose some investigators for allegedly taking bribes.
Olukoyede issued the warning during his New Year address to staff members of the anti-graft agency at the commission’s headquarters in Abuja.
The EFCC chairman, who described the situation as embarrassing for the anti-graft agency, said the Department of Internal Affairs of the agency has been directed to be more active and vigilant to monitor every staff member in all their engagements.
Olukoyede warned that such conduct would no longer be tolerated under his watch, vowing that he would wield the big stick against investigators taking bribes.
“At this point, I need to strongly reiterate the issue of discipline, integrity and sense of responsibility in the way we do our work,” he said.
“Public opinions about the conduct of some of our investigators are adverse. The craze and quest for gratification, bribes and other compromises by some of our investigators are becoming too embarrassing and this must not continue.
“Let me sound a note of warning in this regard. I will not hesitate to wield the big stick against any form of infraction by any staff of the Commission. The Department of Internal Affairs has been directed to be more ardent in its work and monitor every staff in all their engagements. The image of the commission is too important to be placed on the line by any corrupt officer.”
Olukoyede noted that steps were already being taken to improve the welfare of EFCC staff members.
“I may not talk about specifics. However, the new year promises to bring smiles on the faces of staff across all the commands. We will continue to do our best to put all of you at your best. However, to whom much is given, much is expected,” the EFCC chairman said.
While noting that last year threw up monstrous challenges on the corporate strength of the EFCC, Olukoyede said the commission had been able to stabilise the system and roll out fresh initiatives and policy direction for the EFCC following his appointment as chairman which came in the last quarters of 2023.
“Lastly, I have always said that we are all privileged to be staff of the EFCC. There is this Latin phrase that says, noblesse oblige, meaning, nobility demands responsibility. This is the crux of the matter.
“We should dignify the privilege of being EFCC staff with proportionate responsibility. It is both a duty and an obligation. I wish you all the best in the New Year,” the EFCC chairman said.
