Ola Olukoyede, the EFCC Chairman, urged Nigerians to reject support for corrupt individuals during the 38th Anti-Corruption Situation Room in Abuja. Key speakers emphasized collective action against corruption, the importance of integrity in leadership, and the necessity for grassroots involvement. Significant attention was also drawn to public sector corruption and the critical need for preventive approaches in fighting graft.
Ola Olukoyede, the Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has urged Nigerians to avoid supporting individuals implicated or convicted of corruption. During the 38th Anti-Corruption Situation Room held on February 27, 2025, in Abuja, he emphasized that any form of support to corrupt individuals undermines the national fight against corruption. He called for an alliance in addressing both minor and major corruption cases and for the population to experience the dividends of democracy.
Further, Olukoyede reinforced the importance of backing leaders committed to integrity, reiterating that his battle against corruption would remain steadfast and unyielding. The discussions at the event featured messages from Dr. Kola Shetima and Dr. Aminu Salihu of the Macarthur Foundation, who highlighted the collective responsibility of Nigerians to combat corruption, as Nigeria is a shared resource.
Dr. Garba Abari, the event’s Chairman, pointed out that public focus is misplaced, pointing to significant corrupt practices occurring among civil servants and in the private sector, particularly through banking fraud. He advocated for more attention to local governance and emphasized the need for autonomy at local government levels. The efforts of the EFCC in recovering funds were commended.
Human rights attorney Femi Falana, SAN, argued for grassroots involvement in combating corruption, underscoring the need for public awareness and budget oversight by citizens. He suggested that state governments establish their anti-corruption agencies to combat local corruption effectively.
Speakers, including Akintunde Sawyerr, Managing Director of the Nigeria Education Loan Fund, highlighted that corruption poses a severe threat to the nation. They advocated for accountability and transparency in resource management and stressed the importance of preventive measures in the anti-corruption fight.
Professor Shehu Abdullahi, former Director-General of GIABA, lamented that corruption erodes citizens’ freedoms and fosters impunity among corrupt officials. He declared that leaders must exemplify integrity and urged the youth to demand a corruption-free society. He concluded by advocating for a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to fighting corruption that emphasizes prevention.
In summary, Olukoyede’s address calls for a collective effort among Nigerians to refrain from supporting corruption in all its forms. The dialogue at the Anti-Corruption Situation Room underscores the significance of integrity in leadership and the necessity for grassroots involvement in anti-corruption efforts. The observations made by various speakers collectively highlight the urgent need for enhanced accountability and preventative measures in both public and private sectors to address Nigeria’s corruption crisis.
Original Source: www.efcc.gov.ng
