AGF backs EFCC in fight against corruption

The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, affirmed his support for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) during the inauguration of the new office complex for the Ilorin Zonal Command. 

Fagbemi emphasised the Commission’s crucial role in President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to instill a culture of accountability in governance.

He asserted that Tinubu is resolute in liberating Nigeria from corruption, underscoring the EFCC’s significance in realizing this vision. 

Fagbemi stated, “The EFCC is pivotal in the Tinubu administration’s efforts to eliminate obstacles to accountability in governing institutions, reinforcing mechanisms for Nigerians to hold public officers accountable.”

Highlighting the concern for recovering and repatriating Nigeria’s stolen wealth, he expressed that the EFCC is expected to lead the charge in tracing, recovering, and facilitating the return of misappropriated assets. 

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The AGF hinted at governmental reforms aimed at enhancing legal frameworks to bolster the Commission’s investigative and asset recovery endeavors.

In emphasising the importance of adherence to the rule of law, Fagbemi reminded Commission officers of their obligation to conduct affairs in strict accordance with legal principles.

“Besides offering accommodation for the Commission’s personnel, this administration aims to eliminate institutional and legal obstacles hindering the Commission. Both the Executive Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, and I are aligned on this vision. It is my hope that all Commission personnel recognize that combating corruption is most effective within the bounds of the law,” he stated.

In his address, EFCC Chairman Me Ola Olukoyede urged Commission officers to remain steadfast in their efforts to cleanse the business environment and support the nation’s drive to attract foreign direct investment (FDI) by addressing economic and financial crimes. He emphasized that non-performance would not be tolerated.

Olukoyede reiterated his commitment to refocus the anti-corruption effort by adopting strategies that stimulate economic growth and development in the best interests of Nigerians.

He described the commissioning of the Ilorin Zonal Command’s office complex as a “dream come true,” highlighting that it fulfilled a promise made during a recent visit to Ilorin. The office, established in 2019, initially operated from a rented apartment near the new site. The need for a more secure environment for operational and administrative work prompted the commissioning of the new office.

The EFCC boss praised the Governor of Kwara State, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, for his contribution to the project’s success. He also acknowledged the support of the Presidency and the National Assembly in allocating funds for the project’s completion.

He emphasised that “the anti-corruption thrust of the present administration is backed with political will” and assured that “the EFCC is ready to continue the fight in accordance with the rule of law.”