The Kogi State Chapter of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has called for the immediate resignation of the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Olanipekun Olukoyede, citing his inability to handle the matter between the party and former Kogi State governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello.
In a statement issued on Saturday, Hon. Esseyin Oluwakayode Emmanuel, PDP Youth Leader for Kabba/Bunu Local Government, called for Olukoyede’s immediate resignation to prevent further damage to the EFCC’s reputation and to safeguard the integrity of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s anti-corruption campaign.
The statement reads, “The recent confrontation between the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and Alhaji Yahaya Bello, former Governor of Kogi State, is a regrettable episode that has cast a negative light on the credibility of our nation’s anti-corruption efforts.
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“This incident reflects poorly on the leadership and operational integrity of the EFCC, and it is imperative to address these concerns to restore public confidence in the Commission.
“Alhaji Bello’s voluntary appearance at the EFCC headquarters is a clear indication of his commitment to transparency and his willingness to cooperate with due process.
“However, the unprofessional and poorly managed approach by the EFCC Chairman turned what should have been a routine inquiry into a public spectacle, undermining both the reputation of the Commission and the principles of justice it is supposed to uphold.”
He went on to demand assurances from the authorities that no harm would come to Alhaji Yahaya Bello as a consequence of his willingness to clear his name.
He stressed that the EFCC must strictly adhere to legal protocols without resorting to intimidation or coercion.
“The EFCC Chairman must issue an unreserved public apology to Alhaji Yahaya Bello and Alhaji Usman Ododo for the unwarranted provocation and reckless actions that led to the incident at the Kogi State Liaison Office.
Such conduct is unacceptable and unbecoming of a federal institution.”
The statement further urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene by relieving the EFCC Chairman of his duties.
“This will send a clear signal that this administration does not condone misconduct or mediocrity in the handling of sensitive national matters.”
The PDP Youth Leader also commended the maturity and composure shown by Alhaji Usman Ododo, the current Governor of Kogi State, during the entire episode.
“His leadership and calm demeanor have demonstrated a commitment to peace and stability in the state, even in the face of unwarranted provocation.”
The PDP Youth Secretariat reaffirmed its commitment to the rule of law and the principles of accountability.
“We will continue to advocate for justice and fairness, ensuring that public institutions are not used as tools for political or personal vendettas.
Only through a transparent and impartial process can we uphold the integrity of our democracy and the rights of all citizens.”
