On Tuesday, Ola Olukoyede, the Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, urged lawyers nationwide to constantly do background checks on their clients.
He clarified that this was being done to make sure they don’t violate any anti-money laundering or counterterrorism financing laws.
According to a statement released by the commission’s Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, the head of the EFCC addressed a panel at the 64th Annual General Conference of the Nigerian Bar Association, or NBA, Conference on money laundering.
The statement says, “The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, called on lawyers across the country to always observe due diligence in their practices.
“This, according to him, is necessary for them to know the background of their clients so as not to run foul of the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing regulations.”
Olukoyede also encouraged lawyers to handle themselves in a professional manner.
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 to protect the sanctity of our profession, which is very key.
“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.”
