The Executive Chairman of Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Mr. Ola Olukoyede has called on Civil Society Organisations, CSOs, across the country to strengthen their existing relationships with the Commission in the fight against economic and financial crimes.The Chairman stated this during an interactive session with members of CSOs in Edo State at the Benin Zonal Command of the Commission.
The Chairman who spoke through Ag. Zonal Director, ACE I Effa Imoh Okim, noted that CSOs were pivotal in combating the menace of corruption in Nigeria. “Let’s work together in tackling the menace of corruption. I want us to build on our existing relationships. I can’t be everywhere but you are everywhere. Our first choice is prevention and that is where the CSOs come in. You have the reach and the spread, so you can take the message to the people out there, especially young people on the consequences of engaging in internet fraud and other forms of criminality”, he said.
Corruption, he noted, has been the bane of our development, challenging CSOs to become whistle blowers and intelligence gatherers in the fight against corruption. “We need you to give us authentic information and to eliminate deceit from our collaboration.”
In his response, Kelly Osunbor, President, Faculty of Peace assured the Ag Zonal Director of their willingness to support the Commission in the attainment of its mandate. “Nigeria is our country, it’s our home, so we will work with you in your quest to build a better country.” The same view was shared by Leftist Austine Enabulele, Interim Chair, Edo Civil Society Organisations.
