Gombe, Nigeria – Ola Olukoyede, the Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), urged local government chairmen nationwide.
He emphasized the need to adopt transparency and accountability in managing council resources effectively.
By doing so, they can enhance governance and foster citizens’ trust in their leadership.
At the Gombe State Local Government Summit on Wednesday, he highlighted the vital role of responsible governance at the grassroots level.
Consequently, he called on local leaders to prioritize ethical practices and ensure their actions align with the public interest.
Furthermore, he issued a strong warning against financial misconduct, emphasizing the EFCC’s unwavering commitment to combating corruption.
In this context, he urged local officials to act with integrity and prioritize the welfare of their communities.
Addressing the audience directly, Olukoyede reminded local government leaders that they are not exempt from investigation or prosecution for fraudulent activities.
This firm stance reinforces the EFCC’s determination to uphold accountability across all levels of government.
He asserted that the EFCC would take immediate action against any official found mismanaging public funds, regardless of their tenure.
“Local government chairmen do not have immunity,” Olukoyede stated firmly. “We will not wait until your tenure ends to hold you accountable.”
“The impact of these resources is not felt by the people living in these areas.
Councils, instead of becoming catalysts of growth, have become caricatures existing only in name.”
The EFCC chairman urged local government chairmen to establish compliance units within their councils to ensure proper monitoring of resource allocation and project execution.
Such measures, he explained, would help curb financial impropriety and enhance the delivery of services to local communities.
To bolster its oversight capabilities, Olukoyede revealed that the EFCC has set up a Fraud Risk Assessment and Control (FRAC) department.
This unit will monitor how increased allocations from the Federation account are being utilized by local governments.
“EFCC will be paying you visits occasionally to monitor how you are using the funds,” Olukoyede warned.
“We will come in the evening. Sometimes you may even be seeing us in your dreams.”
The EFCC chairman’s remarks underscore the agency’s commitment to combating corruption at all levels of government.
As local governments play a critical role in driving grassroots development, Olukoyede’s call for accountability serves as a timely reminder of the need for ethical leadership and prudent resource management in Nigeria’s councils.
