The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has expressed his deep frustration over the pervasive level of corruption in Nigeria.
Speaking on Tuesday while receiving the management team of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission, led by its Chairman, Mohammed Shehu, Olukoyede shared his dismay at the staggering amounts of money siphoned from the country’s coffers.
In a statement released by Dele Oyewale, Head of Media and Publicity for the EFCC, Olukoyede remarked, “When I look at some case files and see the humongous amount of money stolen, I wonder how we are still surviving. If you see some case files, you will weep. The way they move unspent budget allocation to private accounts in commercial banks before midnight at the end of a budget circle, you will wonder what kind of spirit drives us as Nigerians.”
Olukoyede underscored that public corruption stands as the most significant form of corruption in Nigeria. He pointed out that if public corruption were eradicated, Nigeria would fare better than many countries globally. “A situation where somebody would hold a public office or position of trust for years and you call him to account and he says No, he would not account, is not acceptable,” he stated.
The EFCC Chairman emphasized the need for transparency and accountability to be deeply rooted in both the public and private sectors to achieve optimal development in the country.
While acknowledging the substantial challenge that corruption poses, Olukoyede expressed optimism that the preventive measures implemented under his leadership would ensure the commission stays ahead of corrupt practices, ultimately providing Nigerians with better governance.
