The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Ola Olukoyede, has expressed concern that Nigeria operates a system that enables fraud to thrive.
In a statement released by Dele Oyewale, Head of Media and Publicity for the anti-graft agency, Olukoyede emphasized that Nigerians, who may engage in corrupt practices within the country’s current system, would act differently in environments with stringent regulatory compliance and solid structures.
Olukoyede made these remarks on Thursday in Abuja during a courtesy visit by a delegation from the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), led by its Managing Director/CEO, Chief Samuel Ogbuku, at the EFCC’s corporate headquarters.
He reaffirmed the EFCC’s commitment to its mission, stating, “Nigerians are fundamentally good people, and I say this proudly wherever I go. I am proud to be a Nigerian. The real issue lies in the system we operate—a system that permits fraud to flourish. However, if you take a Nigerian who is corrupt within our system and place them in an environment with strict regulations and structures, you’ll find that they will behave.”
Olukoyede also underscored the EFCC’s resolve to remain steadfast and uncompromising in its fight against corruption. “We have been criticized and called names, but we are unwavering. We are moving forward because someone has to do this job, and we will do it and succeed.”
He added, “When I assumed office, I made it clear to all Nigerians that we would use the anti-corruption fight to build the economy. Our work will not only combat corruption but also contribute to economic growth and promote good governance.”
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