The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has affirmed his commitment to spearheading a comprehensive and inclusive campaign against economic and financial crimes, sparing no one implicated in any form of wrongdoing.

EFCC chairman Ola Olukoyede
EFCC chairman Ola Olukoyede

Olukoyede emphasized that the recent prosecution of two former governors serves as a testament to the EFCC’s stance on holding all accountable without exemption.

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In January, the EFCC arraigned former Anambra State governor, Willie Obiano, on charges of embezzling N4 billion of the state’s security funds during his tenure from 2014 to 2022. Similarly, on February 24, 2024, the agency charged former Kwara State governor, Abdulfatah Ahmed, with alleged involvement in a N10 billion fraud.

Speaking at an anti-corruption concert in Abuja on Monday, organized to raise awareness against cybercrimes, the EFCC Chairman reiterated his dedication to conducting a comprehensive, integrated assault on corrupt activities.

Olukoyede stated, “We will not show mercy to anyone. No one will be spared, whether they are high-profile thieves or smaller offenders. In the past two months alone, we have prosecuted two former governors. This demonstrates our commitment to combating various forms of economic and financial crimes.”

He cautioned young people against engaging in cybercrimes, highlighting the severe consequences associated with conviction for such offenses. He stressed that being labeled as ex-convicts carries significant career limitations, including disqualification from running for public office.

Olukoyede urged youths to shun internet fraud, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing their future over short-term gains from criminal activities.

Under his leadership, the EFCC is prioritizing youth development and has plans to establish a Cybercrime Research Centre at the EFCC Academy. This center will engage young people in extensive research on cybercrime and channel their energies toward productive endeavors.

Olukoyede encouraged youths to embrace hard work and integrity, emphasizing that success is achieved through diligence and honorable means. He called for collective action against corruption, stressing that combating corruption is a shared responsibility that extends beyond the EFCC alone.

The Minister of State for Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, echoed Olukoyede’s sentiments, urging youth nationwide to support the EFCC in its fight against economic and financial crimes. He emphasized the need for unity in challenging corruption, asserting that Nigeria’s youth are determined to reshape the nation’s narrative.