EFCC Ekiti Zonal Office Inauguration Signals Stronger Anti-Corruption Drive — Shettima

 

Vice President Kashim Shettima has described the inauguration of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) Ekiti Zonal Directorate office in Ado-Ekiti as a major boost to Nigeria’s anti-corruption campaign and the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Speaking on Tuesday at the inauguration of the new facility located along Old Iyin Road, Ado-Ekiti, Shettima said the project represents a strategic investment in strengthening institutions responsible for combating financial crimes and supporting national development.

The Vice President commended EFCC Chairman, Mr Ola Olukoyede, for his commitment to building a stronger and more responsive anti-graft agency capable of addressing emerging economic and financial crimes across the country.

“This state-of-the-art facility demonstrates the Commission’s determination to make a lasting impact on the lives of Nigerians and enhance the effectiveness of anti-corruption efforts nationwide,” he said.

Shettima emphasised that modern infrastructure and improved welfare for security and law enforcement personnel are critical to national development, noting that the EFCC remains a key pillar in Nigeria’s economic stability and security architecture.

He highlighted some of the Commission’s recent achievements, including its role in dismantling a foreign-linked cryptocurrency fraud syndicate in Lagos in 2024, which resulted in the conviction of 192 foreign nationals.

He also acknowledged the agency’s efforts in tackling Ponzi schemes and its contribution to Nigeria’s removal from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) Grey List.

The Vice President further praised the EFCC’s asset recovery operations, noting that recovered funds had supported key government intervention programmes such as the Student Loan Scheme and the Consumer Credit Scheme.

According to him, the successful prosecution of several high-profile corruption cases, including those involving a former minister and a former managing director of a national investment bank, demonstrates the government’s commitment to sustaining anti-corruption enforcement without fear or favour.

Reaffirming President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to strengthening public institutions, Shettima pledged continued support for anti-corruption agencies.

“We will continue to invest in strengthening anti-corruption agencies through conducive working environments, improved welfare packages, operational independence and adequate training opportunities. Your sacrifices will not be taken for granted,” he said.

He also urged enhanced collaboration among security agencies and stakeholders in Ekiti and Ondo States to ensure the effectiveness of the Commission’s operations within the zone.

Earlier, EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede described the inauguration of the zonal directorate as a significant milestone in the Commission’s efforts to expand its operational reach and improve service delivery.

“The edifice we are gathered to commission today is the crystallisation of a unique vision in institution-building and consolidation,” he said.

Olukoyede explained that the new office would bridge operational gaps in Ekiti and Ondo States while deepening community engagement and strengthening enforcement capacity. He assured law-abiding citizens that the Commission’s activities are targeted solely at offenders.

“If you have nothing to hide, you can rest assured that when the EFCC knocks on your door, it is to seek your cooperation and support,” he said.

The EFCC chairman reiterated the agency’s resolve to intensify the fight against economic and financial crimes, including cybercrime and illegal mining, warning that criminals would find no safe haven within the jurisdiction.

He cited landmark convictions secured by the Commission, including that of former NEXIM Bank Managing Director, Robert Orya, who was sentenced to 490 years imprisonment after a decade-long trial, and former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, who received a 75-year prison sentence over the diversion of funds earmarked for major power projects.

“The EFCC is a marathon runner. When it comes to the fight against corruption, we do not give up,” Olukoyede declared.

He called for greater public participation in the anti-corruption campaign, stressing that community support remains indispensable to the Commission’s success.

“Success in the fight against corruption is impossible without the buy-in of the people. This is your zone; own it and support its mission,” he added.

The newly commissioned facility, an inherited structure that has been extensively renovated and upgraded, now boasts modern office spaces, fully furnished workstations, holding facilities, staff canteens and a spacious parking area designed to enhance operational efficiency.

The event attracted a host of dignitaries, including Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji, Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, members of the National Assembly, security chiefs and traditional rulers from across the country.