By Nkechi Eze
The Emir of Ilorin and Chairman, Kwara State Council of Traditional Chiefs, His Royal Highness Alhaji (Dr.) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, CFR, has pledged the unwavering support of the traditional institution of the State to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, in its relentless fight against corruption.
A statement made available to journalists by the commission’s spokesperson Dele Oyewale disclosed that the Emir gave this assurance in Ilorin on Wednesday, April 23, 2025 while receiving the Ilorin Zonal Director of the EFCC, Mr. Daniel Isei, who led members of the Directorate’s management team on a courtesy visit to his Palace.
According to Dele, Sulu-Gambari lauded the EFCC’s efforts in combating financial and economic crimes and assured the Zonal Office of his full support. He described the people of Kwara as “very polite and lovely,” adding that the fight against corruption requires collective resolve and community involvement.
The revered monarch, a former Justice of the Court of Appeal, offered heartfelt prayers for the success of EFCC Executive Chairman, Mr. Ola Olukoyede in the weighty responsibility entrusted to him. He fondly recalled attending the commissioning of the Commission’s ultra-modern office in Ilorin a few years ago and expressed readiness to continue supporting the EFCC’s mission. He also extended the royal blessing to the zonal director and his team, assuring them of the Palace’s readiness to assist whenever called upon.
“You have our support, our prayers, and our doors are always open,” he said.
Earlier in his remarks, Isei underscored the critical role traditional rulers play in shaping public behavior and fostering accountability within society.
“Though I have been in Ilorin for less than a month, I chose to visit Your Royal Highness first because I recognize the pivotal role of the traditional institution in building public trust and achieving meaningful, lasting impact in the fight against corruption,” he said.
“I am operating within your domain. We earnestly seek your support, your prayers, and your wise counsel to help us fulfill our constitutional mandate,” he said
Isei explained that the purpose of the visit was to seek royal blessings and strengthen collaboration with the traditional authority in Kwara State.
He also appealed for the Emir’s support in addressing the pressing issues of cybercrime and illegal mining currently affecting the state.
In conclusion, the Zonal Director extended warm felicitations to the Emir on the occasion of his recent 85th birthday, wishing him continued good health and impactful leadership.
The Zonal Director was accompanied on the visit by Cosmas Ugwu, Head, Legal and Prosecution; Kayode Adebayo, Head, Administration and Human Resources and Ayodele Babatunde, Head, Public Affairs Department.
