EFCC Chairman, Bawa Lauds Nigeria Police Over Support To The Commission

Nath Gbaoron, Lafia.

The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC), Abdul-Rasheed Bawa has expressed gratitude to the Nigeria Police Force for their collaborative support throughout the Commission’s journey.

Bawa disclosed this on Thursday, at Ende Hill, Nasarawa Eggon Local government area of Nasarawa State at the passing out parade of 115 inspector cadets, course 6/2022 of the commission, consisting of 96 males and 19 females.

He specifically thanked the Inspector General of Police, Usman Alkali Baba CFR, for making the Police Mobile Force Training College accessible to the EFCC.

The Chairman also commended the Commandant of the EFCC Academy, Commander Ayo Peter Olowonihi, and his training team for their invaluable contributions.

Bawa appreciated the pivotal role played by the Federal Government in enabling the recruitment of new officers to strengthen the commission’ workforce.

The EFCC chairman expressed deep appreciation to President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, for his unwavering commitment to combat corruption and his support in passing three crucial legislations: the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022; the Proceeds of Crime (Recovery and Management) Act, 2022; and the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022. These laws have significantly aided the EFCC in achieving convictions, with a total of 3,785 convictions secured in 2022 alone.

Despite its enforcement and prosecution successes, he said the EFCC remains dedicated to its prevention mandate. As part of its strategic objectives for 2021-2025, the Commission actively engages the public through virtual town-hall meetings on Twitter every Wednesday.

He further said integrity clubs in secondary schools and Zero Tolerance clubs in tertiary institutions have been established nationwide to educate and discourage young individuals from engaging in financial crimes, especially cybercrime and advance fee fraud.

Bawa further stressed that during their training, the cadets received “comprehensive instruction in operational studies, legal studies, financial studies, forensics, counterterrorism, and general studies. They were also introduced to the policies and manuals of the Commission, providing them with the necessary guidance for their conduct within and outside the EFCC.”

He added that the training included drill exercises, unarmed combat techniques, arms training, marksmanship principles, and shooting range exercises to instill discipline, endurance, and patience.

Expressing his pride in the cadets’ transformation, the Chairman emphasized their crucial role in the fight against economic and financial crimes. He urged them to remain committed to their profession, highlighting that law enforcement in this field is a national service that takes years to build but can be destroyed in an instant.

Representing the commandant of the Nigeria Police Force, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Orutugu I Livingstein, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Muhammed Yakubu NDA expressed gratitude for the close relationship between the police force and the EFCC.

He acknowledged the importance of their partnership in ensuring a crime-free society in Nigeria. ACP NDA emphasized that the police would continue to support and collaborate with the EFCC in their mission to combat economic and financial crimes.

The EFCC Academy’s Commandant, CE Ayo Peter Olowonihi, expressed his appreciation to the EFCC Chairman for his unwavering support in organizing the passing out parade.

He also extended gratitude to the commandant of the Nigeria Police Force for their assistance in training and providing necessary facilities.

Olowonihi commended the seamless cooperation between EFCC and police trainers, which greatly contributed to the success of the training program.

Olowonihi applauded the dedication and perseverance of the graduants who underwent intensive training for over nine months.

He praised their adaptability and performance during the parade, showcasing the outcome of their two-week tutelage.

The Commandant recognized the remarkable achievements of the cadets, stating that this particular set had broken records during their training.

The presence of parents and well-wishers at the ceremony was highly appreciated by Olowonihi, recognizing the important role they played in supporting the graduants throughout their training journey.

He further highlighted the exceptional accomplishments of the cadets, underscoring their commitment and determination.