The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) receives over 20,000 petitions related to public-sector corruption every year. Chairman Ola Olukoyede disclosed this during the 80th birthday celebration of former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Chief Kanu Agabi, in Abuja. The volume and nature of petitions reflect the scale of corruption in Nigeria. Olukoyede described the cases as "terrible" and emphasized the need for collective action against corruption.
Olukoyede highlighted the significant change in financial positions of public officials after assuming office. He mentioned that some cases investigated by the EFCC involved public officials whose financial positions changed substantially. The EFCC chairman stated that public officers take money every minute, and case files often reveal shocking evidence. He stressed that Nigerians collectively bear the consequences of corruption and must come together to say no to corrupt activities.
EFCC investigations have traced substantial naira and dollar assets to public servants who had modest financial positions before office. Olukoyede cited cases of officials linked to millions of dollars and naira accumulated within three or four years in public office. Some officials were allegedly connected to the ownership of dozens or even hundreds of houses. He emphasized that such corrupt practices hinder national development.
Olukoyede emphasized the need for public office holders to account for their stewardship. He stressed that transparency and accountability should remain central to the management of public resources. The EFCC chairman urged Nigerians to take collective action against corruption. He also highlighted the importance of integrity education, particularly for young Nigerians.
ICPC chairman Musa Adamu Aliyu identified societal tolerance of corrupt practices and weaknesses in public institutions as major factors sustaining corruption. He noted that Nigerians tolerate the culture of corruption, which allows it to thrive. Aliyu also pointed out systemic errors and weaknesses in public institutions.
Aliyu called for integrity education to begin early, particularly in primary and secondary schools. He argued that young Nigerians should be deliberately exposed to values that discourage corruption. The ICPC chairman urged stakeholders to engage members of Generation Z and Generation Alpha on integrity and responsible citizenship.
The event brought together stakeholders to discuss corruption and its implications for national development. Olukoyede and Aliyu emphasized the need for collective action against corruption. They highlighted the importance of integrity education and accountability in public office.
Key points
- EFCC receives over 20,000 petitions on public-sector corruption annually
- Corruption hinders national development, say EFCC and ICPC chairmen
- Stakeholders call for integrity education to begin early in schools
