In a move towards enhancing transparency and curbing corruption at the grassroots level, the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has urged Nigerians to willingly provide information on how their resources are utilized.
The call to action was made during a two-day workshop organized by the Kaduna State Ministry of Local Government, as highlighted in a statement released by EFCC spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, on Saturday.
Addressing the participants, Olukoyede, represented by the Kaduna Acting Zonal Commander, Aisha Abubakar, underscored the importance of collaboration in the fight against economic and financial crimes.
Emphasizing his commitment to prioritizing preventive measures in combating corrupt practices, he stressed that adopting preventative strategies is not only cost-effective but crucial in minimizing the incentives for corruption.
The EFCC chairman emphasized the need for conscious efforts to promote fiscal discipline, transparency, and efficient resource management at the grassroots level.
He asserted that strengthening local government administration in Nigeria requires active involvement and information-sharing from citizens.
Olukoyede stated, “Nigerians at the grassroots should be willing and ready to offer information to the EFCC at all times on how their resources are being used.
This brings us to the need for whistleblowing. They should be ready to join the EFCC in exposing corrupt practices in their midst.”
Highlighting the significance of preventive measures, Olukoyede emphasized that international best practices in the fight against graft prioritize preventive frameworks.
By reducing incentives for corruption to the minimum, crimes and criminality can be more effectively addressed.
The EFCC chairman also advised local government officials to prioritize economic development in their localities, urging them to steer clear of theft and financial misappropriation.
Dr. Hadiza Sabuwa Balarabe, the Deputy Governor of Kaduna State, echoed this sentiment in her remarks at the workshop.
She called on local government functionaries to embrace financial discipline in line with international best practices and avoid any form of corruption that could disrupt the financial system.
The workshop marks a significant step in fostering a collaborative approach to tackle corruption at the grassroots level.
The EFCC’s emphasis on preventive measures and citizen involvement underscores a commitment to building a foundation of transparency, fiscal responsibility, and efficient resource management to strengthen local governance across Nigeria.
