EFCC Chairman urges media vigilance in anti-corruption fight
By Adeola Ogunrinde
Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Ola Olukoyede, has urged the Nigerian media to remain vigilant, bold, and united in the fight against corruption. He made this call during the annual lecture of the National Association of Judicial Correspondents (NAJUC), Lagos Island branch. Olukoyede, represented by his Chief of Staff, Mr. Ezekwe Michael, praised journalists for their role in promoting transparency and accountability.
He described the recognition of anti-corruption efforts as a morale booster, adding that it strengthens the resolve of the EFCC to continue its work with renewed vigor. “We must no longer treat corruption with levity. We must be firm, resolute, and united,” he said, emphasizing the patriotic duty of fighting corruption.
Olukoyede called for stronger collaboration between sectors and reiterated the media’s influence in shaping public discourse and promoting a culture of integrity. Delivering the keynote address, retired Justice Folashade Bankole-Oki stressed the urgent need for justice sector reforms, citing declining public trust in the judiciary.
She advocated the adoption of modern technology, international best practices, and increased public engagement to address systemic inefficiencies. Innovations such as virtual hearings, e-filing, online dispute resolution, and paperless trials, she said, should be implemented nationwide to ease case backlogs.
Bankole-Oki also emphasized the importance of responsible journalism, warning against sensationalism that could erode the judiciary’s credibility. While rejecting proposals like mandatory blogger registration, she called for greater media accuracy, accountability, and fact-based reporting.
On whistleblowing, she urged media professionals to support protective measures for whistleblowers while ensuring the system is not misused. Justice John Terhemba Tsoho, Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, represented by Justice Ambrose Lewis-Allagoa, also advocated stronger cooperation between the judiciary and court reporters.
Chairman of the occasion, Justice Taiwo Taiwo, commended the Chief Justice of Nigeria for publishing judicial nominees for public scrutiny, describing the move as a major step toward transparency. NAJUC Chairman, Mr. Olugbenga Soyele, said the event’s theme was timely and aligned with current reform efforts.
The lecture concluded with the presentation of an Award of Excellence to EFCC Chairman Olukoyede in recognition of his leadership and commitment to the anti-corruption campaign.
