The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has denounced the repackaging, rebranding, and resale of government palliatives meant for vulnerable individuals, stating that it undermines the government’s efforts to alleviate suffering.
EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, made this statement during a visit from Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission CEO, 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.
Olukoyede emphasized the need for collaboration between the two agencies, saying, “We need to work together to deter offences related to the diversion of palliatives. Sharing intelligence will enhance our operations and ensure that sanctions are imposed on those involved.”
Bello expressed his commitment to collaboration, stating, “We believe in a collaborative effort to protect the interests of consumers in Nigeria. We need to leverage the strengths of EFCC’s work in surveillance and investigation.”
Olukoyede urged the FCCPC to share intelligence on palliative diversion, saying, “Sanctions are necessary to deter people. We are committed to strengthening our collaboration to ensure that people feel the impact of your work.”
