Use your platforms to expose fraud, corruption – EFCC chair tells journalists
The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has called on media practitioners across Nigeria to use their platforms to expose fraud, financial crimes, and corruption in all sectors of society.
Olukoyede made the call in Warri, Delta State, while addressing the 12th Annual Conference of the Association of Communication Scholars and Professionals of Nigeria (ACSPN). He was represented by Assistant Commander of the EFCC and Head of Public Affairs, Benin Zonal Directorate, ACE I Williams Oseghale.
Speaking on the conference theme, “Corruption, Governance and Media in Nigeria,” Olukoyede praised the ACSPN for highlighting the role of the media in strengthening governance and combating corruption. He described the media as a critical partner in holding leaders accountable and safeguarding the nation’s democracy.
Recalling the contributions of pioneers such as Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe and Chief Anthony Enahoro, the EFCC chairman noted that the media had historically stood at the forefront of Nigeria’s struggles against colonialism, social injustice, and military misrule. He urged contemporary journalists to uphold that legacy by embracing investigative journalism and exposing fraudsters as well as public officials who misuse public funds.
“I urge media practitioners to use their platforms to fight corruption and the twin evils of economic and financial crimes. Current journalists must emulate their predecessors by exposing the atrocities of fraudsters and those who divert public resources,” Olukoyede said.
He emphasized that the media fulfills its constitutional mandate as the “Fourth Estate of the Realm” only when it holds the government accountable and educates the public on the dangers of corruption.
Olukoyede added that corruption can be defeated if citizens individually and collectively embrace accountability, transparency, and due process, while urging the media to continue supporting the EFCC in educating Nigerians on the devastating effects of corruption.
Also speaking at the event, ACSPN President, Professor Rotimi Williams Olatunji, said the conference theme was timely, given that corruption erodes governance, economic growth, social justice, and public trust. He acknowledged the challenges. confronting the Nigerian media but stressed that forums such as the annual conference provide opportunities for practitioners to share ideas, review pressing issues, and advance communication scholarship and practice both locally and globally.
Use your platforms to expose fraud, corruption – EFCC chair tells journalists
