The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) have joined hands in a collaborative effort to intensify the fight against corruption in Nigeria. This powerful alliance was emphasised during a visit by the Chairman of the ICPC, Dr. Musa Aliyu, SAN, to the EFCC headquarters in Abuja.
In a statement released on Wednesday, EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede affirmed the commitment to leave no room for corrupt individuals to evade justice. He stated, “President Bola Tinubu’s unwavering determination to confront economic and financial crimes has created an environment where there is no immunity for the corrupt. No one is exempt from investigation if they deviate from the rules.” Olukoyede conveyed the eagerness of both the EFCC and ICPC to operate in the conducive atmosphere set by President Tinubu.
Highlighting the significance of the collaboration, Olukoyede said, “The engagement with the ICPC sends a clear message to the entire nation that the anti-corruption agencies are uniting, extending hands of comradeship and fellowship to each other.” He also referenced the existing Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two agencies, emphasising its importance as a dynamic document that can be regularly reviewed to accommodate mutual interests.
Dr. Musa Aliyu, in his opening remarks, emphasised the need for synergy and understanding between the ICPC and the EFCC. “Working closely and collaboratively is essential in the fight against corruption,” he said. Aliyu expressed readiness to strengthen the relationship, saying, “ICPC is very much ready to collaborate and partner with the EFCC.” He acknowledged the existing friendship between the agencies and called for regular meetings to assess and enhance their joint efforts.
Olukoyede underscored the immense workload faced by both agencies, noting that despite having five anti-corruption agencies in Nigeria, the combined staff strength of the EFCC and ICPC is far outnumbered by a single agency in the U.S. He advocated for a cooperative approach, stating, “When limited by staff strength and resources, working together becomes crucial to moving the country forward.”
