The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Ola Olukoyede, has urged Nigerian leaders to analyze and adopt the leadership qualities demonstrated by former President of Nigeria, Umaru Musa Yar’adua. Yar’adua assumed the presidency in 2007 but tragically passed away in 2010 due to health complications. Olukoyede commended Yar’adua for his exemplification of integrity and transparency, which he identified as fundamental attributes of a proficient leader. The EFCC chief made these statements in Abuja on Monday during the inaugural President Umaru Musa Yar’adua International Leadership Conference and Awards.
Delivering a speech on “Moral and Ethical Leadership; Antidote to National Development,” Olukoyede, represented by the Director of Public Affairs of the Commission, CE Wilson Uwujaren, emphasized that while there are regulations and statutes in place nationwide to uphold integrity, the inadequate enforcement of these laws contributes to the diminished integrity levels prevalent among many Nigerians. He highlighted the fact that the EFCC aligns itself with the legacy that Yar’adua left behind, which encapsulates values of integrity and transparency.
Olukoyede underscored the significance of moral and ethical leadership, asserting that these were principles that Yar’adua embodied during his tenure as Governor of Katsina and President of Nigeria. He emphasized that these virtues are crucial for future generations to emulate. The EFCC’s mandate from the government encapsulates the core principles of integrity, fairness, and transparency in both public and private sectors. The crimes targeted by the EFCC, such as embezzlement, bribery, and contract inflation, all stem from a lack of integrity. Therefore, Olukoyede urged individuals to integrate integrity into all their endeavors.
Furthermore, the EFCC head reiterated the Commission’s unwavering commitment to upholding the stipulations outlined in its Establishment Act, affirming that the Commission would persist in its enforcement duties. Additionally, former Nigerian President, Gen. Yakubu Gowon, lauded Yar’adua for embodying true patriotism and his enduring love for Nigeria. Governor of Benue State, Hyacinth Alia, also expressed gratitude for the preservation of Yar’adua’s legacy, encouraging Nigerian leaders to remain resolute in executing their mandates to propel Nigeria towards progress. He emphasized the importance of embracing challenges and maintaining hope for a better Nigeria, drawing inspiration from the exemplary leadership exhibited by Yar’adua.
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