The Acting Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Abdulkarim Chukkol, has emphasized the need for Nigerians to proactively combat corrupt practices and not wait until they personally suffer losses. Speaking at a one-day media training/workshop organized by the EFCC in Ilorin, the capital of Kwara state, Chukkol highlighted the detrimental impact of economic and financial crimes on both individuals and the nation as a whole.
During the workshop, which was attended by print, electronic, and online reporters, Chukkol stressed that corrupt activities posed a significant threat to the progress of individuals and the corporate sector. He emphasized that the consequences of corruption extended beyond direct victims, affecting entire communities, institutions, and the nation as a whole. Therefore, Chukkol urged Nigerians to take a proactive stance against corrupt practices instead of waiting for personal losses.
The workshop also saw the participation of Michaels Nzekwe, the Zonal Head of the Anti-Graft Agency, who represented the EFCC Acting Executive Chairman. Nzekwe echoed Chukkol’s sentiments and reiterated the EFCC’s commitment to addressing the illegal activities of solid mineral operators in Kwara state. He emphasized that these activities posed severe threats to the local and national economy, as these operators often failed to pay royalties, taxes, and other dues.
Nzekwe further emphasized the prevalence of cybercrime, particularly among undergraduates and fresh graduates in Kwara state due to the presence of numerous academic institutions. He acknowledged the significance of the workshop in fostering a stronger relationship between the EFCC and the media, describing it as one of the agency’s efforts to build synergy.
Dele Oyewale, a renowned journalist and guest lecturer at the workshop, delivered a thought-provoking speech on “Investigative Journalism and Nigeria’s Fight against Money Laundering.” Oyewale emphasized the importance of investigative reporting in uncovering hidden truths and exposing various forms of corruption. He expressed disappointment at the dearth of investigative journalism in Nigeria, highlighting the need for journalists to be more inquisitive and ask probing questions about critical issues.
Oyewale noted that investigative journalism held the potential for financial rewards and urged practitioners to unlock this hidden source of income. He cautioned against relying solely on press statements and encouraged journalists to delve deeper into issues to uncover the truth.
Chief Superintendent Alex Ogbole Ocheme, a top investigator at the EFCC, also addressed the participants on “New Trends in Cybercrime: How not to fall victim.” He urged Nigerians to be proactive in protecting themselves against cybercriminals, as bringing perpetrators to justice often involved lengthy procedures and processes. Ocheme advised individuals to install preventive codes on their devices to make it nearly impossible for fraudsters to hack their accounts and social media platforms.
The workshop, organized by the EFCC, aimed to enhance the relationship between the agency and the media, provide training on effective reporting of economic and financial crimes, and create awareness of emerging trends in cybercrime. The event emphasized the collective responsibility of all Nigerians in the fight against corruption and financial crimes.
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