The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Olanipekun Olukoyede, has strongly criticized the legal action taken by approximately 16 state governors, who are seeking to have the agency declared illegal.
Olukoyede voiced his concerns during a visit by the Senate Committee on Anti-Corruption and Financial Crimes to the EFCC headquarters.
In his remarks on Monday, Olukoyede described the lawsuit as unnecessary, emphasizing that such legal challenges only serve to hinder the progress made by the agency in fighting corruption. He called on the National Assembly to stand with the EFCC in its efforts to change the negative public perception of the agency, which has faced criticism and resistance despite its successes. Olukoyede stressed that the EFCC must be allowed to continue its work without distractions from legal battles.
Furthermore, Olukoyede made an appeal to the National Assembly, urging lawmakers to increase the agency’s budget allocation in the upcoming 2025 fiscal year. He argued that a more substantial budget would better equip the EFCC to carry out its mandate and address the growing scale of financial crimes in Nigeria.
The legal challenge brought by the governors is set to be heard by the Supreme Court on October 22, where the justices will deliberate on whether the EFCC is legally valid. Despite the pending lawsuit, Olukoyede reassured the public that the EFCC remains fully committed to its mission of combating corruption, financial crimes, and other illicit activities in the country.
Senator Emmanuel Udende, who chairs the Senate Committee on Anti-Corruption and Financial Crimes, led the delegation that visited the EFCC headquarters in Abuja. During the visit, Udende recognized the EFCC’s achievements and reiterated the committee’s support for the agency’s work. He underscored the importance of continued collaboration between the EFCC and the National Assembly to ensure that the agency is adequately funded and empowered to combat corruption at all levels of government.
With this show of solidarity from the Senate Committee, the EFCC remains focused on its mission, undeterred by the ongoing legal challenge, and continues to push for greater support and resources to effectively combat corruption in Nigeria.
