EFCC dismisses two staff over corruption allegations

In a bold move to uphold integrity within the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Chairman Ola Olukoyede revealed on Monday that two staff members were dismissed for corruption just two weeks ago.

The announcement was made during the opening of the 6th Annual Criminal Law Review Conference in Abuja, organized by the Rule of Law Development Foundation.

Olukoyede made it clear that the EFCC would no longer tolerate any form of corruption within its ranks.

“You can’t fight corruption with dirty hands,” he declared. “Two staff members were dismissed recently, and I have instructed that they be prosecuted. This is the same standard we apply to others—we must apply it to ourselves.”

He added, “Any staff member who cannot stand publicly and declare they have not taken a single kobo illegitimately has no business in this agency. Integrity is non-negotiable.”

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The EFCC chairman’s statement comes as part of a sweeping reform agenda to restore public confidence in the agency.

The dismissed staff members are now under investigation, with case files being prepared for their prosecution. Olukoyede assured that any staff member found guilty of misconduct would face both internal disciplinary action and legal consequences.

“This is about leading by example. If we’re serious about fighting corruption, we must begin with ourselves,” he said.

Olukoyede outlined other reforms, including:

Revised Detention Policies: Conducting investigations without unnecessary detentions.
Updated Interrogation Rooms: Ensuring compliance with court directives.
Streamlined Charges: Limiting prosecution cases to no more than 15 counts to ensure focus and efficiency.

The chairman stressed that cases would only proceed to court when the EFCC has gathered solid evidence. “If we lose a case, it will not be because of lack of preparation,” he emphasized.

Olukoyede reflected on his own experience of being investigated during his time as EFCC Secretary, saying it has shaped his approach to leadership. “I know what it means to be on the other side. It’s why I prioritize fairness, accountability, and adherence to the rule of law,” he said.

Encouraging Nigerians to report any suspicious behaviour by EFCC officials, Olukoyede reiterated his commitment to transparency. “If you see something, say something. Report corrupt officials, and we will take swift action,” he assured.

The Criminal Law Review Conference, themed *“Optimising the Administration of Criminal Justice in Nigeria: How to Navigate Emerging and Systemic Challenges of Insecurity and Economic Hardship,”* aims to address critical issues in crime prevention and justice.

Mr. Joseph Daudu, Coordinator of the Rule of Law Development Foundation, described the event as a platform for reviewing criminal justice practices and enhancing Nigeria’s legal systems.

Olukoyede’s decisive action sends a clear message: the EFCC will not tolerate corruption within its ranks. By rooting out internal malpractice, the commission hopes to lead by example in its fight against graft, reinforcing its mission to rid Nigeria of corruption.