EFCC balances enforcement of law with recognition of integrity — Olukoyede
The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has said the agency not only investigates and prosecutes fraudsters but also recognises and commends Nigerians who uphold integrity and anti-corruption values.
Olukoyede stated this on Wednesday in Abuja during the Business Grant Award Ceremony organised by the Jerry Eze Foundation.
He explained that the EFCC recently conducted a six-month investigation into Pastor Jerry Eze, founder of Streams of Joy International, over allegations of money laundering, but found no evidence of financial misconduct.
“I want to let Nigerians know that EFCC is not just about investigating and prosecuting fraudsters, it is also about appreciating and commending Nigerians who are not involved in any form of economic and financial crimes. I commended Pastor Jerry Eze when our investigations showed that he was not involved in money laundering,” he said.
The EFCC boss cautioned religious leaders against unethical conduct, stressing that integrity should remain a guiding principle for all faith-based institutions.
He also praised the foundation’s support for 240 small-scale business owners with grants of $3,000 each, describing the gesture as a meaningful contribution to nation-building and social impact.
Olukoyede commended President Bola Tinubu for approving the release of N100 billion from the EFCC Recovery Account to the Nigerian Education Loan Fund and the Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation as seed capital.
He added that the commission is working on establishing a Cyber Crime Research Centre to equip young Nigerians with digital skills and redirect their talents towards productive and socially beneficial ventures.
