The Chairman of Nigeria's Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr Ola Olukoyede, has issued a powerful statement, arguing that the nation's struggle against corruption must target deep-seated cultural beliefs and societal attitudes that make crime appear acceptable.
Beyond Arrests: Targeting the Roots of Corruption
In a significant shift of focus, Olukoyede declared that the war on graft extends far beyond the traditional realms of arrests and prosecutions. He emphasized that economic and financial crimes thrive not merely due to weak laws or institutional failures, but because Nigerian society has, over time, tolerated narratives that portray wrongdoing as clever, profitable, and even admirable.
This perspective was detailed in the foreword he contributed to a new book titled 'Crime Is a Bad Market.' The publication was authored by Mr Tayo Folorunso, a noted Nigerian media entrepreneur, edutainment strategist, and youth development advocate.
Aligning with the EFCC's Evolving Mandate
Olukoyede stressed that the core message of the book directly aligns with the EFCC's fundamental mandate. It reinforces the commission's evolving, holistic approach to tackling corruption at its very roots. The EFCC boss made it clear that the agency has always viewed its responsibility as extending beyond simple law enforcement.
The commission sees its role as encompassing prevention, public enlightenment, and the reshaping of societal values that enable illicit activities. By endorsing the book's premise, Olukoyede signals a continued push for a national mindset shift, where criminal behavior is universally recognized as a destructive force rather than a shortcut to success.
A Fresh Battle Line in a Long War
This declaration, made public in January 2026, draws a fresh battle line in Nigeria's protracted fight against corruption. It calls for a collective introspection on the part of all citizens, challenging the stories and excuses that have allowed financial crimes to flourish. The move underscores a strategic pivot towards addressing the cultural and social enablers of corruption, aiming to create an environment where ethical conduct is the norm and celebrated ideal.
