Ola Olukoyede, EFCC Chairman, urged Nigerians to stop supporting those involved in corruption at an anti-corruption event. He stressed that this support harms the fight against corruption. Key figures highlighted the need for collective action, grassroots involvement, and integrity among leaders. The event emphasized accountability and transparency as vital to overcoming corruption, with a call for engagement at all levels of society.
Ola Olukoyede, the Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has urged Nigerians to avoid supporting individuals involved in economic and financial crimes. During the 38th Anti-Corruption Situation Room held in Abuja on February 27, 2025, he emphasized that any support given to corrupt individuals undermines the ongoing fight against corruption in Nigeria.
In his address titled “Ethics, Integrity, Corruption Risk Assessments and Anti-Corruption at National and Sub-National Levels; Sustaining the Fight Against Corruption in Nigeria,” Mr. Olukoyede highlighted the negative implications of supporting suspects. He stated, “I urge you that when you see people whom we are prosecuting and we have shown you the evidence, don’t carry placards, don’t join them to fight us…”
Olukoyede called upon citizens to support leaders with integrity and assured that his commitment to combating corruption would remain steadfast and impartial. Additionally, Dr. Kola Shetima and Dr. Aminu Salihu from the Macarthur Foundation echoed the need for collective action against corruption, reminding the audience of the shared responsibility towards Nigeria’s commonwealth.
Dr. Garba Abari, the event chairman, pointed out that the focus on politically exposed persons has overshadowed corruption in civil service and the private sector. He stressed the necessity for attention to local government corruption and commended the EFCC’s efforts to combat financial misappropriation.
Prominent human rights lawyer Femi Falana, SAN, argued for grassroots engagement in the anti-corruption struggle, advocating for public accountability and awareness. He stated, “We must go to the grassroots to make sure that the money meant for the people is judiciously used.”
Akintunde Sawyerr, Managing Director of the Nigeria Education Loan Fund, reinforced the notion that corruption poses a significant threat and recommended a focus on accountability in managing public funds. He suggested that preventative measures should be prioritized in the battle against graft.
Professor Shehu Abdullahi, a former Director-General at GIABA, lamented the oppressive nature of corruption. He asserted that leaders must show integrity and that youth must be empowered to demand a corruption-free society. He concluded that an integrated approach to fighting corruption is essential, stating, “In fighting corruption we should take an integrated approach which should be evidence-based, transparent, non-partisan, all-inclusive and comprehensive.”
In summary, the call for action against corruption in Nigeria is underscored by various speakers at the 38th Anti-Corruption Situation Room, emphasizing collective responsibility, grassroots involvement, and integrity in leadership. The EFCC’s relentless efforts to combat corruption must be supported by all citizens, safeguarding the nation’s resources for the benefit of all. Prevention, transparency, and accountability remain crucial in the ongoing fight against financial crimes.
Original Source: www.efcc.gov.ng
