The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has urged media professionals across Nigeria to step up their efforts in shining a light on fraudulent and corrupt practices that plague various sectors of society.
Olukoyede made this appeal in Warri, Delta State, during the 12th Annual Conference of the Association of Communication Scholars and Professionals of Nigeria (ACSPN).
He was represented by ACE I Williams Oseghale, the Assistant Commander of the EFCC and Head of Public Affairs for the Benin Zonal Directorate, who spoke on the theme “Corruption, Governance and Media in Nigeria.”
The EFCC chairman praised ACSPN for focusing on critical discussions surrounding corruption, governance, and the media, emphasising that the media plays an essential role in the fight against corruption.
He reminisced about the brave contributions of early Nigerian journalists like Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe and Chief Anthony Enahoro, who fought against colonialism and social injustice, as well as the press’s courage in opposing military rule, which helped pave the way for Nigeria’s return to democracy.
“I encourage media practitioners to leverage their platforms to combat corruption and the dual threats of economic and financial crimes in our nation. Today’s journalists should take inspiration from their predecessors and engage in investigative journalism to uncover the wrongdoings of fraudsters and public officials who misappropriate public funds”, Olukoyede stated.
He stressed that the media can truly fulfill its role as the Fourth Estate of the Realm only when it holds leaders accountable and informs citizens about the repercussions of corruption.
He believes that corruption can be overcome, and good governance can be established when individuals and communities embrace accountability, transparency, and due process.
Olukoyede also called on journalists to support the EFCC by providing the public with accurate information about the commission’s activities.
