Senate President Godswill Akpabio’s media aide, Kenny Okolugbo, has praised President Bola Tinubu’s administration for its anti-corruption efforts, pointing out that Ola Olukoyede’s Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, or EFCC, has shown an unparalleled degree of effectiveness and focus.
In an interview with TVC News, Okolugbo praised Olukoyede’s efforts to tackle financial crimes, namely round-tripping and naira manipulation related to cryptocurrencies.
“The chairman of the EFCC, Ola Olukoyede, has done a lot to combat round-tripping and the artificial devaluation of the naira, particularly those who use cryptocurrency to manipulate the currency’s true value,” he stated.
He stated that the economy has improved and the naira has remained relatively stable as a result of the Commission’s measures.
Okolugbo maintained that the current administration has achieved significant strides in its fight against corruption, despite what the opposition has said.
“The EFCC has never been as focused as it is under President Tinubu. “And it was supposed to be President Tinubu who was corrupt,” he remarked.
“I don’t mean to disparage President Buhari, but we didn’t even combat corruption the way we do now under his leadership, which was meant to be anti-corruption,” he continued.
As proof of progress, he pointed to the EFCC’s recovery of 753 homes and its contribution to the creation of internally generated income (IGR) for programs like the cash-back program and the students’ loan fund.
He claims that the EFCC’s efforts, such as tracing cash across ministries and agencies and deporting foreigners involved in cybercrime, have made it clear that Nigeria is no longer a safe haven for corruption.
Okolugbo also emphasized that closing financial leaks is crucial for economic expansion and that the Tinubu administration should be commended for taking decisive action in that regard.
He also praised the government’s ongoing tax reforms, calling them a long-term solution to the country’s problems.
“I believe Tinubu has done rather well in these two areas – the economy and corruption.
“The tax reforms will become a significant source of IGR once they are fully implemented and embraced by the public,” he said.
