The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Ola Olukayode, has expressed confidence that Nigeria can overcome corruption if citizens embrace transparency and accountability.
Olukayode made this call at the 12th Annual Conference of the Association of Communication Scholars and Professionals of Nigeria (ACSPN), held in Effurun, Delta State. He was represented by Mr. Williams Oseghale, Assistant Commander and Head of Public Affairs at the EFCC’s Benin Zonal Directorate.
The event was sponsored by Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL), a private pipeline security firm contracted by the federal government.
In his keynote address, the EFCC boss stressed that corruption remains the root of Nigeria’s challenges, including unemployment, insecurity, poverty, hunger, poor infrastructure, and declining life expectancy.
“The onus is on us as individuals to be accountable, transparent, and committed to due process. Every challenge in Nigeria’s development today can be traced to corruption,” he said.
Olukayode noted with concern that Nigeria is often regarded as a nation with entrenched corruption and impunity. He urged the media to play a stronger role in shaping public perception by avoiding the glamorization of corruption and instead using investigative journalism to expose fraudsters and public officials who misuse funds.
He reaffirmed the EFCC’s commitment to fighting economic and financial crimes while commending ACSPN for highlighting the link between corruption, governance, and media responsibility.
ACSPN National President, Prof. Rotimi Olatunji, described corruption in Nigeria as “multi-faceted,” involving both petty acts among lower ranks and large-scale misconduct by elites. He warned that its effects damage the economy, discourage investment, and worsen poverty and insecurity.
Other speakers, including Prof. Majority Oji of Delta State University, encouraged participants to generate knowledge that deepens understanding of corruption and strengthens the fight against it.
The conference was attended by several scholars and media experts, including Prof. Nosa Owens-Ibie, Prof. Daniel Awodiya, Prof. G. G. Darah, Prof. Ayobami Ojebode, Dr. Paul Bebenimibo, Dr. Kayode Okunade, and Prof. Stella Okunna.
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