PETER OBI HAILS EFCC CHAIRMAN, ENCOURAGES FIGHT AGAINST CORRUPTION
Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party for 2023, has praised Mr. Ola Olukoyede, the Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, for raising the alarm about the widespread embezzlement of Nigerian assets and money by public officials.
In a statement on Monday via X, Obi expressed his support for prioritising the fight against grand corruption.
He said, “I have consistently advocated for prioritising the tackling of grand corruption, which has ravaged our economy and impoverished our citizens.”
The former governor of Anambra State urged anti-graft organisations to focus their attention on looking into significant instances of public asset management and government corruption.
He mentioned of oil theft, contract inflation, budget padding, embezzlement, and misappropriation of public funds as areas of focus.
In his letter, he urged anti-graft organisations to concentrate on looking into cases of grand theft and corruption in the administration of public assets, including contract inflation, oil theft, budget padding, embezzlement, and misappropriation of public funds.
Obi also emphasised the importance of addressing cronyism and nepotism.
He added, “Lesser agencies can handle minor cases of petty theft and money spraying at parties.”
Commending the EFCC chairman’s determination to confront corruption, Obi urged Olukoyede to remain steadfast in his pursuit of verifiable cases.
He said, “The EFCC chairman’s resolve to confront this scourge head-on is laudable, and I urge him to remain steadfast in his pursuit of verifiable cases.”
“Together, we must ensure that those responsible for this large-scale pillage are held accountable and that our nation’s wealth is protected for the benefit of all Nigerians,” he said, emphasising the need for accountability.
Obi emphasised the advantages of taking on high-impact corruption cases, like as boosting institutions, enhancing leadership, and rebuilding public confidence.
He said, “By prioritizing high-impact cases, we can restore public trust, strengthen institutions, and ensure leadership that saves enough funds for healthcare, education, and infrastructure, pulling people out of poverty.”
“It is time for accountability and transparency to prevail,” Obi continued, urging a new era of openness and accountability. Enough is enough”.