Table of Contents
- Commendation for the Administration
- Interview Insights
- EFCC's Efforts Against Corruption
- Notable Progress in Anti-Corruption
- Financial Growth and Tax Reforms
Kenny Okolugbo, media aide to Senate President Godswill Akpabio, has praised President Bola Tinubu’s administration for its efforts to combat corruption, stating that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), under the leadership of Ola Olukoyede, has shown an unprecedented level of focus and effectiveness.
Okolugbo shared his thoughts during an interview on TVC News, commending Olukoyede’s initiatives in addressing financial crimes, particularly round-tripping and cryptocurrency-related manipulation of the naira.
“Ola Olukoyede, chairman of the EFCC, has made significant strides in tackling those engaged in round-tripping and the artificial devaluation of the naira, especially those utilizing cryptocurrency to distort the true value of the currency,” he remarked.
He emphasized that the Commission’s actions have contributed to the relative stability of the naira and the enhancement of the economy.
Okolugbo asserted that contrary to claims from the opposition, the current administration has made meaningful progress in its anti-corruption initiatives.
“We have never seen an EFCC that has been as focused as it is under President Tinubu. Interestingly, President Tinubu was once alleged to be corrupt,” he noted.
“I’m not attempting to undermine President Buhari, but during his tenure, when he was expected to be anti-corruption, we did not combat corruption as effectively as it is being addressed now,” he added.
He pointed to the recovery of 753 properties by the EFCC and its role in generating internally generated revenue (IGR) for programs such as the student loan fund and the cash-back initiative as evidence of progress.
According to him, the EFCC’s actions, which include deporting foreigners involved in cybercrime and tracking funds across various ministries and agencies, have conveyed a strong message that Nigeria is no longer a sanctuary for corruption.
Okolugbo further emphasized that addressing financial leakages is vital for economic growth and that the Tinubu administration deserves recognition for taking bold steps in this regard.
He also praised the government's ongoing tax reforms, describing them as a sustainable path toward national development.
“In these two areas — corruption and the economy — I believe Tinubu has performed exceptionally well.
“Once the tax reforms are fully implemented and embraced by the public, they will become a significant source of IGR,” he concluded.
Frequently Asked Questions
What has Kenny Okolugbo said about the EFCC's performance?
Kenny Okolugbo commended the EFCC under Ola Olukoyede for its unprecedented focus and effectiveness in tackling corruption and financial crimes, including round-tripping and cryptocurrency manipulation.
What progress has been made in anti-corruption efforts?
Okolugbo highlighted the recovery of 753 properties by the EFCC and the generation of internally generated revenue for key initiatives as significant progress in the administration's anti-corruption efforts.
What are the implications of the ongoing tax reforms?
The ongoing tax reforms are expected to create a sustainable path for national development and become a major source of internally generated revenue once fully implemented and embraced by the public.