The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has disclosed the reasons behind his 2020 suspension as the EFCC secretary under former President Muhammadu Buhari's administration.
In a video posted by Channels Television on their YouTube channel, Olukoyede explained that his suspension was a result of his refusal to comply with demands made by a cabinet member, leading to a protracted investigation.
Olukoyede revealed that he was not obligated to report to the cabinet member in question.
However, the tension began when the cabinet member made specific demands that Olukoyede refused to meet.
He cited the EFCC's establishment act, which outlined the correct procedures that needed to be followed. Despite pressure to comply, Olukoyede said he stood his ground.
Olukoyede stated that the situation escalated further when the cabinet member confronted him directly after being rebuffed a second time.
He said that the cabinet member insisted on compliance, but he remained steadfast in his refusal.
Olukoyede stressed that despite warnings from colleagues who advised him to appease the cabinet member, he remained confident in his principles and the integrity of his actions.
He said that this refusal to comply led to a smear campaign against him, culminating in a two-and-a-half-year investigation.
He said that the investigation was a challenging period for him, but he maintained his innocence and continued to uphold his principles.
He said that his perseverance eventually paid off, as the investigation concluded with his exoneration.
Olukoyede highlighted that the ordeal was a test of his commitment to ethical standards and his resilience.
He expressed relief that the investigation cleared him of all allegations, reaffirming his dedication to the principles of the EFCC and the fight against corruption.
Reflecting on the experience, Olukoyede emphasised the importance of integrity and adherence to established procedures within the EFCC.
He noted that his resistance to undue influence was rooted in his belief in the rule of law and proper governance.
He said that the outcome of the investigation reinforced his commitment to these values.
Olukoyede said, "There was someone who was a cabinet member, as it were, but I was not meant to report to the cabinet member.
"And a time came, and he said, look, bring this and bring that. I said, sir, I will not do that. The particular provision of the establishment act of this organisation says this is how this has to be done.
"The second time he sent for me, and I resisted, he looked at me in the eyes, and he said, what do you mean? He identified himself, and I said, Sir, I know you.
"Somebody called me afterwards and said, look, you better come back and beg this man, or else your days are numbered.
"I smiled because I knew where I was coming from, and I know my life and my destiny are not going to end where I am.
"Three weeks later, a panel was set up, and my name was being maligned all over the place. I was under investigation for 2 and half years, I was suspended in 2020 for doing nothing. At the end of the day, I was giving a clean bill.''
Watch the interview video here (start from 4:32).