By Nkechi Eze
The Oba of Lagos, His Royal Majesty Rilwan Akiolu, has reaffirmed the commitment of the Lagos traditional institution to support the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in its ongoing fight against corruption and financial crimes.
According to an official signed statement by the Head, Media and Publicity of the EFCC, Dele Oyewale, the monarch gave the assurance on Thursday, April 30, 2026, while receiving the Acting Zonal Director of EFCC Lagos Zonal Directorate 2, Assistant Commander of the EFCC I (ACE I) Bawa Usman Kaltungo, who led a delegation of senior officers on a courtesy visit to his palace in Lagos.
Oba Akiolu described the visit as a demonstration of respect for the traditional institution and a reaffirmation of shared values of integrity, justice, and collaboration. He stressed that the EFCC’s mandate transcends administrative responsibility, characterising it as a moral obligation critical to sustaining economic stability, particularly in Lagos as a major commercial hub.
“The Palace of Lagos regards the mission of the EFCC not merely as an administrative responsibility, but as a moral crusade. In a global economic hub such as Lagos, the integrity of the financial system is the very foundation of prosperity,” the monarch stated.
He further described corruption as a persistent threat that must be confronted through transparency and firm enforcement of justice, commending the EFCC for its sustained efforts in tackling economic and financial crimes across the country.
Oba Akiolu pledged the full backing of the traditional institution, noting that the fight against corruption requires collective resolve and the strengthening of institutions.
“Your request for fatherly support is hereby granted with the full weight of the Throne. Together with the Council of Chiefs, we pledge our cooperation in fostering a culture of accountability that will resonate across Lagos and beyond,” he said.
Earlier in his remarks, ACE I Kaltungo expressed appreciation to the monarch for the warm reception and conveyed the goodwill of the EFCC Executive Chairman, Mr Ola Olukoyede.
He described the visit as both symbolic and strategic, noting that it was aimed at formally introducing himself in his new capacity and strengthening collaboration with critical stakeholders, particularly the traditional institution.
Recalling a previous encounter with the monarch early in his career, Kaltungo said the visit held personal significance, describing it as a return to familiar ground within the Lagos Directorate.
He emphasised the importance of engaging traditional leaders in the anti-corruption campaign, noting their influence in shaping societal values and promoting ethical conduct.
“Today, my team and I consider it both necessary and respectful to seek an audience with Your Majesty, acknowledging your fatherly role in the state and fulfilling our mandate to engage key stakeholders in the fight against economic and financial crimes,” he said.
Kaltungo added that the Commission remains committed to strengthening partnerships that will promote transparency, accountability, and integrity across all sectors of society.
He also expressed confidence that sustained collaboration with traditional authorities would reinforce public trust and deepen the impact of the EFCC’s anti-corruption initiatives in Lagos and beyond.
