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From Sola Ojo, Abuja
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has called for stronger collaboration with the media and civil society organisations (CSOs) in the South-East region to enhance the fight against economic and financial crimes in Nigeria.
The Executive Chairman of EFCC, Mr. Ola Olukoyede, made the call during a one-day capacity-building workshop organised by the Commission for media practitioners and CSO representatives in the region.
He was represented by the Enugu Zonal Director, Commander of the EFCC, CE Daniel Isei.
Olukoyede described corruption as a surmountable challenge, noting that although new technologies, global financial systems, and cross-border crimes have complicated the fight, collective action among stakeholders remains key to victory.
“Intelligence sharing remains one of the most critical areas of our partnership.
“Information is power, and in the fight against corruption, timely and accurate information can make the difference between success and failure,” he said.
He urged the media and CSOs to remain vigilant and provide credible intelligence to aid EFCC investigations, assuring them that the Commission has strengthened mechanisms for handling whistleblower reports with strict confidentiality and respect.
Describing the media and CSOs as “indispensable pillars” in the anti-graft campaign, Olukoyede called for “a coalition of conscience, an alliance of all stakeholders committed to good governance and national development.”
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“The media is a veritable watchdog of our democracy. Through investigative reporting, you expose corruption, demand transparency, and inform citizens.
“CSOs, on the other hand, amplify the voice of the people, mobilize communities, and hold institutions accountable,” he said.
The workshop provided a platform for knowledge sharing and collaboration to enhance detection, prevention, and response to evolving forms of financial crimes.
Delivering lectures at the event, EFCC Deputy Commander and Spokesperson, DCE Dele Oyewale, spoke on “The Role of CSOs and Media in Driving a Preventive Framework.”
He emphasised the need to counter misinformation and stereotypes about the EFCC, urging the media to promote accurate reporting.
Assistant Commander, ACE I Farouk Abdullah, Head of Legal and Prosecution, discussed “Prosecuting Financial Crimes: Issues, Challenges and the Way Forward,” highlighting the complexities of judicial processes in corruption cases.
Chief Superintendent, CSE Stephen Idoko, Head of Bank Fraud Section, spoke on “Understanding Cryptocurrency Fraud and Other Emerging Financial Crimes,” while Aisha Mohammed, Head of Enlightenment and Reorientation Unit, emphasised exploring new strategies to enhance public awareness and stakeholder engagement.
