In a gripping revelation, the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, disclosed a stark warning he received from President Bola Tinubu prior to his appointment, emphasizing the treacherous nature of his impending responsibilities.
During a courtesy visit to the revered Emir of Ilorin, Dr Ibrahim Sulu Gambari, Olukoyede unveiled the foreboding words of President Tinubu, cautioning him about the perilous nature of his forthcoming role. Reflecting on the Senate screening process, he vowed to uphold a steadfast three-point agenda, assuring that the EFCC would continue to dutifully serve the nation without succumbing to intimidation or obstructing legitimate business operations.
Recounting the poignant pre-appointment admonition from President Tinubu, Olukoyede recounted, “Before I was appointed the EFCC Chairman, President Tinubu told me that this appointment that I was about to take, is one of the riskiest jobs that anybody can take.” To this, he resolutely responded, affirming his unwavering commitment to navigate the demanding position guided by the principles of law and professional ethics, demonstrating an unyielding resolve to uphold the sanctity of his role.
In a show of unflagging support, the Emir of Ilorin and Chairman of the Kwara State Council of Chiefs pledged steadfast allegiance to the EFCC’s pursuit of its core mandate to combat crimes and criminality within the state. Citing his unwavering dedication to upholding the law, he assured the EFCC of his principled stance, asserting, “I cannot say the government is wrong for doing the right thing in society.”
Emanating wisdom drawn from a wealth of experience, the Emir drew upon his tenure as the acting Director of Public Prosecution in the old Gongola State, underscoring the imperative for leaders to exercise judicious diligence in the execution of their duties. In a poignant admonition, he counseled Olukoyede to remain resolute, unwaveringly adhering to the precepts of the rule of law in the discharge of his duties, echoing the solemn pledge made during his Senate screening. With a spirit of benevolence, he imparted his earnest prayers for Olukoyede’s triumph in office, affirming his hope for a successful tenure.
This revelation unfolds against the backdrop of a tranquil Ilorin Emirate, juxtaposed against the lamentable reality that criminal elements often infiltrate the peace, with the emirate serving as a vital thoroughfare between the North and the South. The Emir, serving as the gatekeeper, vowed to safeguard the integrity of the emirate, anointing hope for a future free from the menacing shadow of criminality.
As the EFCC confronts the daunting task of upholding the law and combating corruption, the harrowing warning from President Tinubu casts a sobering hue over Olukoyede’s tenure. Yet, buoyed by the unwavering support of the Emir of Ilorin, Ola Olukoyede stands poised to navigate the treacherous waters ahead, steadfast in his dedication to the pursuit of justice and the rule of law.