Olukoyede Congratulates EFCC Prosecutors Elevated To Senior Advocate Of Nigeria Rank
The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Ola Olukoyede, has congratulated two top EFCC officials, Abba Mohammed and Ekele Iheanacho, on their elevation to the prestigious rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN). Mohammed, who serves as Special Adviser and Head of the Chairman’s Legal Team, and Iheanacho, Head of Special Duties 2, were among 87 legal practitioners conferred with the rank on September 30, 2024, by the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun.
Speaking at a reception held in Abuja in their honor, Olukoyede commended the hard work and dedication of the newly elevated SANs, highlighting the EFCC’s significant contributions to Nigeria’s legal landscape. He noted that more than five Senior Advocates have emerged from the Commission, and encouraged other qualified EFCC prosecutors to aspire to similar heights.
“As you rise in your careers, there will be more responsibilities. Offers may come your way to compromise your integrity, but you must remember who you are and the values you stand for. The EFCC is unmatched in its achievements, particularly in terms of convictions,” Olukoyede said, praising the Commission’s exceptional record and expressing hope that even more prosecutors will reach the SAN rank next year.
The Chairman of the occasion, former Director General of the Voice of Nigeria, Osita Okechukwu, congratulated Mohammed and Iheanacho, describing their elevation as a call to serve the nation with greater commitment. He emphasized that Nigerians expect a lot from their newly acquired status. EFCC’s Director of Legal and Prosecution, Mr. Sylvanus Tahir, SAN, echoed similar sentiments, urging the honorees to uphold the ethical standards of the profession.
Several EFCC officials and legal luminaries delivered goodwill messages at the event, including Deputy Director Kabir Latona and senior members of the Inner Bar. Other attendees included former EFCC Acting Chairman Ibrahim Magu, Chairman of the House Committee on Financial Crimes Ginger Onwusibe, royal dignitaries, and EFCC directors, alongside family and friends.
The elevation of the 87 legal practitioners was announced by the Legal Practitioners’ Privileges Committee (LPPC) during its 164th plenary session on August 1, 2024.
