Olukoyede emphasized President Tinubu’s strong political resolve in combating economic and financial crimes by abstaining from interfering with the commission’s work in a statement released by Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale.
On June 12, 2024, he spoke during a courtesy visit to Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, also known as Ojaja II, the Ooni of Ife, in Ile-Ife, Osun State.
“The President has never called me to stop, impose, dictate, or prescribe any directives regarding the commission’s affairs,” Olukoyede maintained. “Since my appointment as EFCC Chairman.”
Rather, the Federal Government has provided the anti-graft agency with significant funding in order for it to carry out its duty.”
He assured the Ooni of Ife and Nigerians that the EFCC, with its current autonomy, is committed to eradicating corruption and holding political office holders accountable for managing resources meant to improve the lives of Nigerians.
Olukoyede also praised President Tinubu for his unwavering support, despite criticism from some elites and political figures. He expressed gratitude to the Ooni for his support and royal blessings in the fight against corruption, vowing that the EFCC would confront those misusing public resources for personal gain.
Under Olukoyede’s leadership, the EFCC has introduced dynamic measures to address corruption, including creating a new department called “Fraud Risk Assessment and Control.”
This department is tasked with ensuring accountability in the use of budgetary allocations across all ministries, departments, and agencies of the Nigerian Government.
“Since assuming office, I established a new department to ensure public office holders are held accountable for the resources entrusted to them, aimed at fostering economic growth,” Olukoyede said.
He clarified that his actions are not driven by personal motives or to target individuals but to support President Tinubu’s strategic plans for a better Nigeria.
In response, Oba Ogunwusi commended Olukoyede’s commitment and passion in combating corruption. He praised the EFCC Chairman’s community engagement and collaborative initiatives with relevant stakeholders.
The monarch also thanked President Tinubu for his non-interference in the commission’s activities, stating, “This demonstrates Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to achieving a corruption-free nation, and we must all contribute our efforts.”
Oba Ogunwusi assured the EFCC Chairman of his continued support in the fight against corruption, encouraging Olukoyede to remain steadfast despite pressures and threats from those benefiting from corruption and tarnishing the country’s image.