President of the New Generation Leadership Initiative, a non-governmental organization committed to good leadership, good governance, and equipping potential leaders with principles that will enhance excellence in public leadership for economic, social, and political transformation of material conditions in Nigeria has rejected the appointment of Mr. Ola Olukoyede as the Executive Chairman of the EFCC and call for its immediate withdrawal.
Eastmond Ojen who addressed journalists in Abuja said it's important to note that Mr. Ola Olukayede has corruption baggage, having been once indicted and suspended alongside the former acting Chairman of the EFCC in the person of Mr. Ibrahim Magu.
He further pointed out that Mr. Olukoyede has not met the fifteen years statutory requirement to be appointed as EFCC Executive Chairman.
Part of the statement reads: "The relevant sections of the EFCC Act regarding membership of the commission are as follows: (1) The Commission shall consist of the following members-
(a) a chairman, who shall
(1) be the Chief Executive and Accounting Officer of the Commission. fil) be a serving or retired member of any government security or law enforcement agency not below the rank of Assistant Commissioner of Police or equivalent; and
(iii) Possess not less than 15 years cognate experience.
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For the benefit of doubt, we wish to clarify that Mr. Olukoyede has just 5 years working experience with EFCC and therefore not suitable in anyway to be appointed as Chairman of EFCC. We must emphasize that anything contrary to our plea for a withdrawal of this
appointment and a proper replacement is made with a more suitable candidate either from the South-South or South East will face strong resistance from concerned Nigerians who understand the importance of the EFCC in our nation's fight against corruption.
In conclusion, we stand united in our pursuit of a better Nigeria, one where the rule of law is upheld, and transparency and accountability are at the forefront We urge Mr. President to reconsider his decision in the interest of our nation's future and the dreams of our new generation. Together, we can build a Nigeria where the fight against corruption is relentless and where our leaders inspire trust and confidence in the hearts of our people.
"We commend Mr. President for his commitment to a united Nigeria by appointing the first southerner as the EFCC Chairman in more than two decades. However, we must emphasize that the boundary of "southern Niguria" extend to the South- South and South East regions, and this distinction is vital in understanding the significance of this appointment.
"We believe that the EFCC is the engine room for rebuilding the better Nigeria of our dreams for future generations. Appointing Mr. Ola Olukoyede as its Executive Chairman sends a yellow alert that signals potential challenges ahead. Therefore, on behalf of the new generation Nigerians,
"If the President's intention is to ensure the position goes to the South, we humbly urge him to consider other highly qualified individuals from the South who have dedicated years of service to the commission. Appointing one of these distinguished individuals would not only adhere to the EFCC Act's stipulations but
also be a testament to the President's commitment to upholding the values of transparency, accountability, and anti-corruption."
