Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has called for an enhanced and consistent commitment to whistle-blowing by Nigerians from all walks of life in order to tackle the menace of economic and financial crimes and other acts of corruption.
He made this call in Abuja while addressing stakeholders in the anti-graft war during the 2024 African Anti-Corruption Day which held in Abuja on Thursday, July 11, at the Unity Fountain.
According to Olukoyede, the fight against corruption has become more compelling owing to its increasing threat to individual, corporate and national quest for growth and development.
He charged Nigerians with being more prepared to explore the whistle-blowing initiative as a demonstration of their sincerity and seriousness in breaking the fangs of corruption.
He said: “Aside terrorism, corruption ranks as the next deadliest affliction of humanity in every region of the world. In view of the danger and threat to our existence which corruption represents, it is imperative that individuals, communities, corporate bodies and indeed the whole world join hands together to tackle it frontally. One way of doing this is through the whistle-blowing initiative.
Drawing from the theme of the 2024 African Anti-Corruption Day which is “Effective Whistleblowing for Corruption-Free Nigeria”, Olukoyede enjoined Nigerians to show commitment by fully embracing the demands of the whistle blowing policy of the government. The policy, launched on December 21, 2016 by the Federal Government through the Federal Ministry of Finance, is an anti-graft programme that encourages people to voluntarily disclose information about fraud, bribery, looted government funds, financial misconduct, abuse or embezzlement of government assets and any other form of corruption or theft.
The EFCC boss explained that the fight against corruption required absolute commitment to integrity and unfaltering focus.
“We cannot win the war against corruption through lip service, emotional outburst or mere mob campaigns. There is need for commitment, passion, consistence and credibility of intelligence. Every whistle blown must point towards truth and evidential proofs”, he said.
Meanwhile, various stakeholders at the Road Walk bared their minds on the need for more affirmative actions against corruption.
Chairman, Nigeria Labour Congress(NLC), Joe Ajearo stated that the NLC will fully support the EFCC in its fight against corruption.
He said: “Most of the governors being prosecuted today are those who couldn’t pay minimum wage. This is an urgent need for us to fight corruption and NLC will throw its weight behind the agency in all fight against corruption.”
Chairperson, Conference of Civil Society and Coordinator Civil Military Co-operation(CIMCO), Adams Otakwu, commended the EFCC for galvanizing Nigerians to stand against corruption.
THE NATION.
About Author
More Posts
Pelican Valley Begins Short Let Service At Ecostay Apartments Kobape
FIFA Photo Journalist, Abdul Momoh Sets To Host Photography Masterclass In Ilorin
Wike Blows Hot On Street Begging In Abuja, Gives Sunday Ultimatum