The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre), has commended the decisive actions taken by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) under the leadership of Chairman Ola Olukoyede in the pursuit of internal accountability and transparency in the anti-graft agency, therefore called for more investigations among staff across all levels in the Commission.
In a recent development and reports in the media, HEDA noted the EFCC’s termination of one of its prosecutors, Offem Uket’s contract, following serious allegations of misconduct and insubordination in the prosecution of the highly controversial and contentious Malabu OPL 245 fraud trial.
According to HEDA’s Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, “The EFCC Chairman’s commitment to upholding integrity within its ranks is highly commendable and aligns with the principles of good governance and ethical conduct that our organization, HEDA Resource Centre advocates for in curbing corruption in the country. Considering the media reports of circumstances surrounding the unprecedented adoption of a “no case submission” of defendants in a case prosecuted by Mr. Offem Uket, the international community have not only expressed concerns but monitored the response and action of the Commission to that development.
“The reported actions taken by Chairman Olukoyede demonstrate a firm stance against corruption and a commitment to maintaining the highest standards of professional conduct within the EFCC. It is crucial that anti-corruption agencies in Nigeria demonstrate unwavering resolve in tackling corruption at all levels, including within their own organizations. This is capable of reassuring partners of the Commission at local and international levels.” He added.
Furthermore, HEDA supports the EFCC’s decision to further investigate any individuals suspected of undermining the agency’s mandate and objectives, noting that corruption erodes public trust and undermines the effectiveness of institutions tasked with upholding justice and accountability. It is imperative that those entrusted with the responsibility of combating corruption operate with the utmost integrity and adherence to ethical standards.
“We urge the EFCC to continue his efforts to root out corruption and ensure that all staff, regardless of rank, adhere strictly to the principles of transparency and accountability. This includes thorough investigations into any allegations of bribery or misconduct that may compromise the agency’s ability to deliver justice, including lifestyle audit of some operatives and prosecutors.
Chairman Olukoyede’s leadership in initiating these actions, both in this particular case and others before it, underscores the EFCC’s commitment to restoring public confidence and advancing the fight against corruption in Nigeria.
HEDA Resource Centre stands ready to continuously support such efforts and calls on all stakeholders including the media and civil society organisations to join hands in the pursuit of a more transparent and accountable fight against corruption.
