The Executive Chairman of the EFCC, Ola Olukoyede, warned Nigerians against supporting individuals involved in corruption during the 38th Anti-Corruption Situation Room in Abuja. He, along with other speakers, highlighted the need for collective action and integrity in the fight against corruption, urging citizens to hold leaders accountable and emphasizing grassroots involvement to combat corruption effectively.
Ola Olukoyede, the Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has urged Nigerians to withdraw support for individuals suspected or convicted of economic and financial crimes. He made this appeal during the 38th Anti-Corruption Situation Room held in Abuja on February 27, 2025. Olukoyede emphasized that aiding corrupt individuals undermines the collective fight against corruption in Nigeria.
In his speech on “Ethics, Integrity, Corruption Risk Assessments and Anti-Corruption at National and Sub-National Levels,” Olukoyede highlighted the negative impact of public support for corrupt individuals, stating, “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, because you are contributing to the problems.” He called for the support of leaders who exhibit integrity and reaffirmed his commitment to fighting corruption impartially.
Dr. Kola Shetima and Dr. Aminu Salihu, representing the MacArthur Foundation, reinforced the importance of collective efforts against corruption, referring to Nigeria as a shared commonwealth that needs to be safeguarded. They stressed the necessity for every citizen to contribute positively towards enhancing the material conditions and welfare of the populace.
Dr. Garba Abari noted the disproportionate focus on politically exposed persons while neglecting civil servants and the private sector, where significant corruption occurs. He emphasized the need to enhance local government autonomy to mitigate corruption at all levels of governance, expressing gratitude for the EFCC’s initiatives against corruption.
Femi Falana, a prominent human rights lawyer, called for grassroots involvement in the anti-corruption movement, underscoring that public engagement is crucial for accountability. He advocated for increased transparency in the use of public funds and the establishment of anti-corruption agencies at the state level to effectively combat corruption in Nigeria.
Various speakers, including Akintunde Sawyerr, Managing Director of the Nigeria Education Loan Fund, concurred that accountability and transparency are vital to combat corruption. He proposed a preventative approach focusing on ethics, integrity, and rigorous risk assessment to maintain momentum against corruption.
Professor Shehu Abdullahi, former Director-General of GIABA, highlighted the tragic consequences of corruption, including the erosion of freedom and the promotion of impunity among corrupt officials. He argued for a comprehensive and evidence-based approach to fighting corruption, focusing on integrity, honesty, and accountability while empowering youth as future architects of a corruption-free society.
In conclusion, the gathering emphasized the collective responsibility of all Nigerians in combating corruption by not supporting corrupt individuals. The speakers highlighted the essential roles of integrity, accountability, and grassroots involvement in the anti-corruption fight. With continued efforts and a unified approach, Nigeria can work towards a more transparent and just society.
Original Source: www.efcc.gov.ng
