Disregard of Financial Regulations Cause of Corruption in MDAs, Opines EFCC Chairman
The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Ola Olukoyede, has raised alarm over persistent non-compliance with rules and regulations within Nigeria’s Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), describing it as the root cause of widespread corruption in the public sector.
Speaking during a courtesy visit by a delegation from the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) at the EFCC headquarters in Abuja, Olukoyede stated that corruption thrives in environments where regulatory frameworks are ignored or deliberately circumvented.
According to the EFCC Chairman, many MDAs and even private institutions consistently fail to comply with established standards and operational guidelines. These systemic breaches, he explained, create loopholes that are exploited for corrupt practices.
“Most agencies don’t comply, and that’s what leads to corruption and financial crimes. When you don’t comply, it’s a breach. And the moment there is a breach, it gives room for anything,” Olukoyede emphasized.
He warned that such lapses are not only detrimental to institutional efficiency but also foster a culture where impunity becomes normalized.
While highlighting these challenges, Olukoyede commended NASENI for its recent collaboration with the EFCC in developing a Corruption Risk Assessment (CRA) framework and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
He described these as important tools in strengthening institutional integrity and improving accountability.
However, he cautioned that these tools would only be effective if the leadership and staff of agencies are genuinely committed to change.
“CRA is good, but the CRA will not bring any change except if the people are ready to change and follow due process.
“No matter the number of policies or documents in place, implementation and compliance are what truly make the difference,” he noted.
Olukoyede assured NASENI of EFCC’s full support in promoting ethical standards and compliance among government agencies. He noted that the Commission is intensifying its monitoring, auditing, and enforcement efforts to combat corruption at the structural level.
He reiterated the EFCC’s belief that preventive measures, such as compliance training, risk assessments, and early warning systems, are as crucial as enforcement in the fight against corruption.
This statement comes amid growing concerns over public financial mismanagement and administrative inefficiency in many federal institutions.
The EFCC under Olukoyede’s leadership has increasingly advocated for a shift from reactive prosecution to proactive prevention of corruption through systems reform.
Observers view his remarks as a call to action for public office holders to embrace transparency and accountability as essential pillars of good governance.
