Kehinde Osifisan: A Call To Action For The EFCC

Kehinde Osifisan: A Call to Action for the EFCC

The article titled “Worries as EFCC recovers N1tr stolen cash, assets from politicians, others,” written by Tope Templer and published in the Guardian on March 10, 2025, provides an interesting perspective. After reviewing the report, one might feel reassured that it was a special report and not an official stance of the respected Guardian newspaper.

The writer quotes human rights activist and lawyer, Inibehe Effiong, who expresses concerns about the EFCC’s operations, citing issues such as trust deficits and corruption within the agency. Effiong also criticizes the EFCC for allegedly favoring politicians, which has tarnished its image. However, it seems this criticism was largely a personal and biased opinion rather than an objective assessment.

In contrast, the EFCC under its hardworking chairman, Ola Olukoyede, has made significant strides, recovering vast amounts of stolen assets and gaining international recognition from anti-corruption bodies and foreign governments. The EFCC’s efforts, particularly in tackling financial crimes like internet fraud, have received praise from foreign ambassadors, signaling a shift in its reputation.

Despite challenges, including corruption within the agency, Olukoyede has taken decisive steps, such as exposing and dismissing officers involved in fraud, showcasing transparency and internal accountability. While the EFCC may not be perfect, it has certainly improved under Olukoyede’s leadership, and it deserves recognition for its continued efforts to combat corruption in Nigeria.