The recent appointment of Mr. Olanipekun Olukoyede as the new chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has sparked a flurry of reactions. In light of this, Mr. Osita Okechukwu, a foundation member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has called on those criticizing the appointment to set aside their differences.
Okechukwu believes that the appointment of Olukoyede will be a game-changer in the fight against corruption, citing his past accomplishments. In a statement released on Sunday, Okechukwu emphasized that controversies often arise following appointments to such crucial and strategic positions, regardless of whether or not they comply with existing laws.
He said, “Upon careful analysis of the ongoing debate, it is evident that Olukoyede’s detractors have overlooked the timeless wisdom of the renowned physicist Albert Einstein – ‘insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results’.”
Okechukwu further expressed his belief that Olukoyede’s appointment is a necessary step towards reforming the EFCC to enhance its effectiveness in combating corruption. He stated, “To continue down the same path would be akin to repeating our mistakes and hoping for different outcomes.”
Addressing concerns about Olukoyede’s qualifications, Okechukwu, who also serves as the Director General of Voice of Nigeria, aligned himself with the prevailing view of senior counsels. He emphasized that Olukoyede’s vast experience, having previously headed the administration of the EFCC and dedicating two decades to tackling fraud, makes him unquestionably qualified.
“The law emphasizes the importance of relevant experience. The reforms envisioned by President Tinubu’s Renewed Agenda can only be achieved by an informed insider with the necessary legal tools, not a novice. This, to me, is the crux of Olukoyede’s appointment,” Okechukwu added.
Looking ahead, Okechukwu expressed his expectations for better results under Olukoyede’s leadership. He urged the new chairman to diligently complete investigations to avoid trial by media. Okechukwu also implored Olukoyede to meticulously scrutinize and trace the billions of dollars siphoned from Nigeria’s commonwealth and hidden abroad.
“Given his time in service as a member of the Technical Committee of the Presidential Advisory Council on Corruption and the Technical Committee on the Repositioning of the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), he should meticulously trace the billions stashed overseas. By doing so, he will help Nigeria escape its economic quagmire and alleviate its debt burden. It cannot be solely Abacha’s looted funds,” Okechukwu emphasized, while appealing to Olukoyede’s detractors to set aside their grievances and work together.
