Corruption is a Shadow: Oba of Lagos Pledges Royal Support to EFCC’s ‘Moral Crusade’

LAGOS – The Oba of Lagos, His Royal Majesty Oba Rilwan Babatunde Osuolale Aremu Akiolu I, has thrown the weight of the state’s traditional institution behind the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), describing the agency’s mission as a “moral crusade” essential for the nation’s survival.

​Speaking at his palace on Thursday, April 30, 2026, the monarch assured the Commission of his unwavering commitment to the war against economic and financial crimes. The assurance came during a courtesy visit by a high-powered delegation led by the Acting Zonal Director of the EFCC Lagos Zonal Directorate 2, ACE1 Bawa Usman Kaltungo.

​In an impassioned address, Oba Akiolu characterized corruption as a “shadow” that must be systematically dispelled by the “light of transparency and the firm hand of justice.” He emphasized that for a global economic nerve center like Lagos, the sanctity of the financial system is the bedrock of sustainable prosperity.

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​“The Palace of Lagos regards the mission of the EFCC not merely as an administrative responsibility, but as a moral crusade,” the monarch stated. “The wisdom of this Palace is rooted in the eternal truth that righteousness exalts a nation. Together with the Council of Chiefs, we pledge our cooperation in fostering a culture of accountability.”

​The monarch’s endorsement is seen as a significant boost for the EFCC’s strategic engagement with critical stakeholders. Oba Akiolu further noted that the battle against the “scourge of graft” requires more than just legal frameworks; it demands strong institutions and a collective national resolve.

​Earlier, the Acting Zonal Director, Bawa Usman Kaltungo—who conveyed the warm regards of EFCC Executive Chairman, Ola Olukoyede—described the visit as a homecoming. Kaltungo recalled his first encounter with the Oba in 2004 at the start of his career, noting that returning to the Lagos Directorate felt like coming back to a father.

​“Today, my team and I consider it both necessary and respectful to seek an audience with you, acknowledging your fatherly role in the state,” Kaltungo said. He highlighted the pivotal role traditional leaders play in shaping societal values and promoting the virtues of honesty and fairness.

​The visit marks a renewed effort by the EFCC to deepen its relationship with traditional authorities, aiming to leverage their influence to foster integrity and transparency across the state and the country at large.