Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) across Nigeria have called for unified national backing of the country’s anti-graft agencies during the Civil Society Roundtable on Anti-Corruption, convened today in Abuja by the Conference of Civil Societies and Centre for Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMICO).
The roundtable focused on how CSOs can contribute to strengthening the efforts of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) in combating corruption.
In his keynote address, Mr. Adams Otakwu, Chairperson of the Conference of Civil Societies and Coordinator of CIMICO, stressed that corruption remains a grave threat to Nigeria’s national security and development.
He urged civil society groups to unite in support of the EFCC and ICPC, calling on them to resist attempts by individuals and groups to undermine these agencies.
“The fight against corruption must be a collective effort,” Otakwu said, “as corruption endangers not just our economy but also our national stability.”Professor Godswill Nnaji, President of the Centre for Excellence, Leadership and Development (CELD), painted a dire picture of the economic consequences of corruption.
Nnaji argued that Nigeria’s economic struggles are directly linked to corruption and the plundering of public resources by those in power. He urged citizens to rise up against corruption and support efforts to restore Nigeria’s financial health.
The representative of the EFCC, Mr. Chris Oluka, highlighted the agency’s ongoing fight against corruption, particularly the prosecution of high-profile individuals. Oluka shared the challenges the EFCC faces, including resistance from powerful figures such as former Kogi State governor, Yahaya Bello, who has refused to cooperate with the Commission.
He expressed disappointment at the defense of such individuals by some groups, labeling it an organized campaign to discredit the EFCC.Dr. Simon Kave, Executive Director of Partnership Africa, warned that allowing individuals to evade prosecution sets a dangerous precedent that could embolden others to engage in corrupt practices.
He stressed that CSOs must play a pivotal role in holding both government and the public accountable. “Corruption cannot be treated lightly,” Kave said.
“It is a crime that, if unchecked, will destroy the moral fabric of our society.
The roundtable concluded with a resounding call for collaboration between CSOs and anti-graft agencies.
Participants emphasized that the successful prosecution of high-profile cases, public engagement in whistleblowing, and close monitoring of government activities are essential steps to ensure transparency and accountability in Nigeria’s fight against corruption.