EFCC Urges National Assembly to Enact Whistle-Blowing Law

Ola Olukoyede, the chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has requested that the National Assembly (NASS) pass legislation endorsing the government’s whistleblower program.

At the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) conference in Lagos on Tuesday, Olukoyede made this call under the theme, “Lawyers in the spotlight: Essential anti-money laundering considerations for the legal profession.”

He pointed out that after the law is passed, law enforcement organizations will be required to defend whistleblowers.

The chairman of the EFCC also urged attorneys across to always exercise due diligence in their work.

In his opinion, it is imperative that they are aware of their clients’ backgrounds in order to comply with the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing (AML/CTF) requirements.
“We are supposed to hold a position of trust in our professional conduct as lawyers,” he stated. Protecting the sanctity of our profession is crucial, and we should act morally toward that end even as we work to abide by international laws and regulations.

“People who are suspected of committing financial crimes should not be shielded from suspicion. Thus, if you are aware of the individual we are searching for, please bring them forward, and we will assist.

“International conventions are not always the path to doing the right thing. You will be removed off the gray list automatically if you follow the correct procedures.

“It is in your best interest to at least be aware of who your client is. It is required of you to receive payment from a reliable source.
You will comprehend what I’m saying if you have ever been a victim of crime. It is imperative that you, as attorneys, never diminish or disparage your professional dedication to your clients.

“The provisions of the EFCC Act and other financial laws in Nigeria are still enforced by me, notwithstanding a portion of the money laundering Act that we have examined.”

Olukoyede emphasized once more that attorneys may still face legal action if they did not act morally.

“It is my duty to trace the proceeds of crimes,” he declared. It is your responsibility to respond to my questions if I link it to you and encourage you to be questioned.
Well, why even discuss encouraging and abetting criminal activity? Why do we need accessories both before and after something happens? Understanding this will help me assess whether or not you are at fault.

While we do not deny you your right to compensation, we do insist that any money you receive not be the result of illegal activity.

Yakubu Maikyau, the president of the Association, responded by attempting to elaborate on the key issues that Olukoyede had brought up during the meeting.

In addition, he asked attorneys to consider Olukoyede’s allegations with an open mind, stressing that the NBA and the Commission ought to work together to combat corruption.

“As lawyers, who else should lead the charge in combating corruption?” he questioned.