By Ebi Kesiena
The recent appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Mr. Ola Olukoyede as the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC has sparked a significant controversy as the Centre for Democracy and Human Rights, CEDUHUR, on Tuesday, protested at the National Assembly, demanding his removal.
According to the group, Mr Olukoyede’s appointment violates the EFCC Establishment Act 2004, which specifies the qualifications for the Chairman of the commission.
While addressing journalists during the protest in Abuja, CEDUHUR Secretary General, Adebayo Lion, expressed dissatisfaction over the appointment adding that Mr Olukoyedes appointment is an infringement on the EFCC’s governing legislation.
Highlighting the breach of the established laws, Mr Lion noted that President Tinubu’s appointment of Mr. Olukoyede deviates from the EFCC Act , which states that the Chairman must 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 , which Mr Olukoyede is not.
Mr Lion, in a petition to the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, demanded the removal of Olukoyede.
Lion argued that these qualifications are crucial due to the paramilitary nature of the EFCC’s responsibilities, and the inclusion of the police ranking system is not arbitrary but reflects the agency’s operational requirements.
‘‘Permitting an appointment that contravenes the EFCC Establishment Act sets a dangerous precedent and could lead to a state of anarchy in the country.
‘‘Mr. Olukoyede’s history with the EFCC has also come under scrutiny. He was appointed as Chief of Staff to the former Chairman, Mr. Ibrahim Magu, from 2016 to 2018. Later, he served as the Commission’s Secretary from 2018 to 2019 before being suspended from office. We are puzzled by his rapid ascension to the position of Executive Chairman and question how he accumulated the additional 15 years of cognate experience required by law’’
The right group however appealed to the Senate to investigate the appointment thoroughly and ensure that it complies with the provisions of the EFCC Establishment Act 2004 to prevent a breach of the law.
‘’We hope that the Senate will promptly address their concerns and preserve the nation’s legal integrity’’ he said.
