The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has outlined what Nigerians should expect from the anti-graft agency in 2026, vowing tougher enforcement against financial crimes.
Speaking during an interview on Sunday Politics, Olukoyede said he would not hesitate to break down doors if that becomes necessary to arrest suspects.
He disclosed that within the last two months alone, the EFCC has arrested hundreds of internet fraudsters, popularly known as Yahoo boys, through carefully planned sting operations.
According to him, many suspects deliberately avoid public places, making intelligence-led and tactical operations unavoidable.
“If I have to break down a door to effect an arrest, I will do that. You see the FBI and the National Crime Agency do it in America, so why should ours be different?” he said.
Olukoyede stressed the importance of supporting Nigerian institutions, noting that corruption remains one of the country’s biggest challenges.
“It is important for us to appreciate the institutions we have in Nigeria and make them work. Foreigners will not come to do it for us,” he stated.
He added that the EFCC has collaborated with international agencies such as the FBI and the NCA, describing such partnerships as evidence that the commission’s work is recognised globally.
“We have received calls to carry out joint operations with our counterparts abroad, and the records are there. If foreigners acknowledge what we do, why can’t Nigerians support us?” he asked.
While admitting that no institution is perfect, Olukoyede appealed to Nigerians to judge the EFCC by its achievements rather than its shortcomings.
“We have our challenges, but with our modest achievements, Nigerians should support us,” he concluded.
