The Vanguard for Transparent Leadership and Democracy (VATLAD) has praised the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for publicly apologising over the alleged invasion of the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital (UUTH) by operatives of the commission.
In a statement issued by its National President, Comrade (Engr.) Igbini Odafe Emmanuel,the group described the EFCC Chairman’s response as commendable following reports that some operatives of the anti-graft agency invaded the teaching hospital, allegedly assaulted and arrested a professor of surgery and other medical personnel while attempting to verify a medical report linked to an individual under investigation.
VATLAD said the apology and condemnation of the incident by the EFCC leadership had helped restore public confidence in the commission’s anti-corruption campaign.
The group also welcomed reports that the EFCC Chairman promised that such actions would not recur and that officers involved in the operation would be investigated and sanctioned for violating the commission’s standard operating procedures.
“This action of the Chairman is laudable and has gone a long way in restoring the confidence of Nigerians in the Commission’s war against economic and financial crimes,” the statement read.
VATLAD further described the EFCC Chairman as “humble” and responsive to public concerns, noting that some leaders in similar positions might have reacted with hostility instead of admitting wrongdoing.
The organisation urged the EFCC leadership to continue promoting discipline, professionalism and transparency in its operations while remaining committed to tackling corruption and financial crimes across the country.
VATLAD also reaffirmed its support for the EFCC and other anti-corruption agencies, pledging continued cooperation in the fight against graft and the promotion of accountable governance in Nigeria.