Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has warned the newly commissioned 169 detective assistant cadets to shun corruption and uphold the principle of integrity, professionalism and courage at all times.
The EFCC chairman stated this during an exclusive chat with LEADERSHIP at the sidelines of the official passing-out parade of the detective assistant cadets Course 5 in Akwanga, Nasarawa State, on Friday.
According to him, “I congratulate the passing-out cadets who, after six months of rigorous training, are today certified worthy to wear the prestigious title of officers of the EFCC. It is a defining moment in the lives of these young officers who are transiting from being bloody civilians into the elite class of law enforcement officers. You have been trained not just in law enforcement but also in ethics, discipline, leadership and the need to uphold the commission’s core values of integrity, courage, professionalism and collaboration.
“These are the principles that will guide you as you embark on your journey as officers of the commission.
“Let me once again remind us that the fight against economic and financial crimes is one on which the future of our nation depends. Nigeria looks up to the EFCC for solutions to pervasive corruption as well as help in stimulating the economy. The commission is also the beacon of hope in addressing concerns about cybercrime and other variants of financial crimes driven by technology.
“As new officers of the EFCC, you are now a critical part of our mission to eradicate economic and financial crimes through prevention, enforcement and coordination. A lot of trust is placed on you as cadets of the commission. Your family, the EFCC and the entire citizens of Nigeria look up to you to uphold the highest standards of ethics and integrity. You must give no room for compromise, nor tolerance for misconduct.”
“In the course of performing your duties, you are likely to face challenges that will test your integrity and commitment. However, be assured that the cases you investigate, arrests you make, assets you recover and every illegal financial transaction you uncover in the course of your duties not only helps in attaining the vision and mission of the Commission, but also works for the benefit of Nigeria and Nigerians at large,” Olukoyede added.
Also speaking at the event, Nasarawa State governor, Abdullahi Sule, called on leaders at all levels to support EFCC to maintain transparency and accountability, and advised the new cadets to utilise the knowledge gained to better the nation as they are privileged to be picked among many Nigerians.
Commandant of the EFCC Academy, Ndubeze Chinwe Chinenye, told LEADERSHIP that the cadets underwent a six-month rigorous course and the academy has reserved one year mentorship programme for the cadets to gain practical experience.
For his part, the chairman, House Committee on Financial Crimes, Mr Ginger Onwusibe, tasked the new cadets on professionalism, physical and mental fitness.
Among the new cadets, Agwuncha Ugochukwu Lotanna emerged overall best cadet, while Anani One Melche and Adutu Joy Uyo emerged first and second runners-up, respectively.
