EFCC boss, Olukoyede, warns investigators against bribery

The chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Ola Olukoyede, has expressed concerns over the persistent solicitation of bribes from investigators within the commission, calling it an embarrassing situation.

Olukoyede, also warned its investigation team that all activities relating to arrests and granting of bail must comply with international best practices.

He said this move is aimed at promoting fairness, transparency, and accountability in the agency’s operations to effectively combat corruption in Nigeria.

Mr Olukoyede said this while addressing members of the EFCC staff in Abuja in his New Year message.

He reminded EFCC staff that they are privileged to work for the organization and should act accordingly.

He said public opinion about the work of the commission and its investigators are adverse and he would not hesitate to “wield the big stick against any form of infraction by any staff of the Commission.

He said, “At this point, I need to strongly reiterate the issue of discipline, integrity and sense of responsibility in the way we do our work. 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.

“Let me also talk about the review of the arrest and bail guidelines which I expect everyone to be familiar with by now.

“The review is informed by the need for us to conform with international best practices in law enforcement. We are a civilized anti-graft agency. Arrest and bail would henceforth be done in line with the rule of law.

“Our investigators should particularly take note of this. It is important for us to understand the dynamics of the world in the area of law enforcement. Change is the most permanent fact of life. We should not be seen to be resisting changes in our work.”