EFCC chairman decries repackaging palliatives for sale

The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Ola Olukoyede, has condemned the repackaging, rebranding, and resale of government palliatives intended for the masses.

Olukoyede highlighted that this practice undermines the government’s efforts to alleviate the suffering of vulnerable individuals.

He made these remarks during a visit by the Chief Executive Officer of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, Olatunji Bello, in Abuja.

In a statement on Friday, EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale reported that Olukoyede urged the FCCPC to share intelligence with the EFCC to enhance its operations.

The EFCC Chairman noted that the FCCPC had identified several issues related to the diversion of palliatives and emphasised that collaboration with the EFCC would help deter such offences.

He said, “Sometimes, when the government releases palliatives, they do not reach the intended recipients.

Instead, some individuals repackage, rebrand, and sell them. There are all sorts of shenanigans in our systems. It is therefore crucial that you share your intelligence with us to support your compliance or surveillance departments and overall operations.

“When you have such intelligence, please do not hesitate to inform us. You have been effective in identifying these issues, but sanctions are also necessary.

“The only thing that deters people is sanctions. We are committed to strengthening our collaboration and taking it to new heights to ensure that people feel the impact of your work.”

Bello disclosed that the purpose of his visit was to seek greater collaboration with the EFCC to improve the delivery of the FCCPC’s mandate.

He said, “We believe in a collaborative effort. We need to leverage the strengths of your work, particularly in areas related to surveillance and investigation involving consumers. Our duty is to protect the interests of consumers in Nigeria.”