The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has criticized Nigerians for decrying corruption while simultaneously rallying behind corrupt leaders when they face prosecution.
Speaking in Abuja on Friday while receiving officials from the Centre for Crisis Communication (CCC), led by Chris Olukolade, Olukoyede emphasized that tackling corruption requires collective effort. He noted that if Nigerians viewed corruption as a common enemy, the country’s underdevelopment would become a thing of the past.
“Everybody is crying that Nigerians are corrupt, that the system is corrupt, that corruption is killing us and destroying our system,” he stated. However, he lamented that when the EFCC investigates high-profile cases and brings individuals to court, some Nigerians come out in support of the accused, undermining the anti-corruption fight.
He stressed that fighting corruption should not be the sole responsibility of the EFCC, adding that collaboration with the CCC would enhance public awareness and engagement on the agency’s activities.
“No single agency can do it alone. It is practically impossible for us as EFCC to fight all the battles. The society has a role to play; policy has a role to play, and the welfare of the citizens also has a role to play,” he added.
Olukoyede further highlighted his leadership approach at the EFCC, stating that he has prioritized prevention over enforcement since assuming office. The agency, he said, would continue to work towards fostering integrity and accountability across all sectors.
