The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has issued a stern warning to lawyers, stating that those who receive payments from clients using proceeds of corruption will face arrest and prosecution. EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede emphasized that legal professionals must ensure that their fees come from legitimate sources, as accepting funds derived from corrupt activities amounts to aiding and abetting corruption.
Olukoyede made these remarks on Tuesday during a panel discussion on money laundering at the 64th Annual General Conference of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) in Lagos. He underscored that the EFCC’s mandate to trace and recover proceeds of crime takes precedence over international conventions, and the agency is committed to holding lawyers accountable if they are found to be benefiting from illicit funds.
“As lawyers, we are entrusted with upholding the integrity of our profession. While we strive to adhere to international laws and conventions, it is crucial that we prioritize doing what is right for our nation and our profession,” Olukoyede said.
He further stated, “It is your responsibility to ensure that you are paid from a legitimate source. If I trace proceeds of crime to you as a lawyer, you will be called in for questioning, and you must be prepared to answer.”
Olukoyede highlighted the importance of understanding the concepts of aiding and abetting crimes, as well as the role of accessories before and after the fact, in determining the culpability of legal professionals. He clarified that while lawyers are entitled to their fees, those fees must not be linked to criminal activities.
The EFCC Chairman concluded by urging lawyers to remain vigilant in safeguarding the sanctity of their profession, stressing that doing so would not only protect their reputation but also help remove Nigeria from international grey lists related to financial crimes.
