The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has criticized the inconsistency in public sentiment, noting that while many Nigerians condemn corruption, they also support corrupt leaders when they face prosecution.
Speaking over the weekend in Abuja during a visit by officials of the Centre for Crisis Communication, led by Chris Olukolade, Olukoyede highlighted this contradiction, emphasizing how public actions often contradict their calls for accountability.
“Everybody is crying that Nigerians are corrupt, that the system is corrupt, that corruption is killing us and destroying our system, but when we investigate high profile cases and arraign people in court, the same people will carry placards and be supporting corrupt leaders.
“It doesn’t show that we are serious about this fight, the fight is supposed to be a collaborative effort,” he said.
Olukoyede emphasized that combating corruption demands joint efforts from both the government and citizens, stressing that genuine progress hinges on a shared commitment to integrity and accountability.
He further stated that corruption remains the greatest barrier to national development.
“One of the major problems in Nigeria which when tackled, will make under-development a thing of the past, is corruption and financial crimes,” he said.
Olukoyede reaffirmed the EFCC’s dedication to tackling financial crimes within the bounds of the law and urged increased public cooperation in the fight against corruption.
He stated that the anti-graft agency would collaborate with the Centre for Crisis Communication (CCC) and other like-minded organizations to strengthen strategic communication and promote public awareness on integrity and accountability.
Recently, the EFCC dismissed 27 officers for misconduct and fraudulent activities.
EFCC spokesman Dele Oyewale revealed in January that the dismissals were based on recommendations from the EFCC Staff Disciplinary Committee, which were approved by Chairman Ola Olukoyede.
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