Ola Olukoyede, Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has threatened to prosecute lawyers paid by clients from proceeds of crime.
The EFCC boss asserted that it is necessary for lawyers to know the background of their clients so as not to run afoul of the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter Terrorism Financing (AML/CTF) regulations.
According to a statement signed by Dele Oyewale, EFCC Head of Media & Publicity, Olukoyede made this known while speaking on Tuesday at a panel discussion on money laundering during the 64th Annual General Conference of Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Conference 2024 in Lagos.
He emphasised that lawyers are not insulated from prosecution if they fail to do the right thing.
He said, “As lawyers, we are supposed to hold a position of trust in our professional conduct. While we try to comply with international laws and regulations, we should also do what is right for ourselves so as to protect the sanctity of our profession, which is very key.
“Doing the right thing doesn’t necessarily come from the way of international conventions. If you do the right things, they will automatically take you out of the grey list.
“It is expedient on you to, at least, know who your client is. You are expected to be paid from a legitimate source.
“If you are a victim of crimes, you will understand what I am saying. As lawyers, you must not, in any way, derogate or demean your professional commitment to your clients.
“Even a part of the money laundering Act that we have evaluated doesn’t stop me from enforcing the regulations of the EFCC Act and other financial laws in Nigeria.
“It is my duty to trace the proceeds of crimes. And if I trace it to you, I will invite you for questioning, and it is your duty to answer my questions.
“I mean, why do we talk about aiding and abetting crimes? Why do we have accessories before and after the fact? Knowing this will assist me to determine your level of culpability or otherwise.”
“We are not saying you are not entitled to your pay, but what we are saying is that the money that comes to you must not be proceeds of crimes,” the statement added.