As attacks on anti-graft agencies increase, the Centre for Excellence, Leadership and Development (CELD) has called for support for the EFCC.
At a press conference today September 27, 2024, in Abuja, the Executive Director of CELD, Professor Godswill Nnaji, raised the pressing alarm.
The Centre expressed deep concern over coordinated efforts to discredit the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and called on all Nigerians to stand firm against attempts to weaken the country’s anti-graft institutions.
At the heart of the issue are calls by some groups for the EFCC to drop corruption charges against former Kogi State governor, Yahaya Bello, among others.
Professor Nnaji condemned these attacks, describing them as part of a dangerous trend that could hinder the fight against corruption.
"These coordinated attempts to discredit the EFCC send the wrong message to Nigerians—that corruption can be tolerated and that justice is not for all," he remarked.
According to him, Nigeria’s anti-corruption agencies are doing critical work, and any efforts to undermine them could have lasting repercussions for the country’s future.
He further elaborated on how corruption lies at the root of Nigeria’s current economic challenges, preventing growth and worsening poverty.
"Corruption deprives us of resources needed for development and growth. It widens the gap between the rich and the poor and creates an environment where innovation cannot thrive," Professor Nnaji stated.
He argued that without addressing corruption head-on, Nigeria’s economy would remain stagnant and unable to meet the needs of its people.
Professor Nnaji highlighted how corruption had crippled other nations, making direct references to Venezuela and Zimbabwe. Both countries once had promising economies but have since crumbled under the weight of corrupt practices.
"Venezuela was once a wealthy nation with abundant oil reserves, yet it now grapples with severe inflation and widespread poverty due to corruption. Similarly, Zimbabwe suffered economic collapse under corrupt leadership. We must learn from these examples," he warned.
The Centre urged Nigerians to rally in support of anti-graft agencies and recognize their role in safeguarding the nation’s future.
Professor Nnaji stressed that public backing is essential in ensuring these agencies are not swayed by malicious campaigns.
"We need collective action and a national commitment to fight corruption, because this is not a fight the EFCC or ICPC can win alone," he said.
CELD reaffirmed its full support for the EFCC, calling on all sectors of society to join the fight against corruption.
"We stand behind our anti-corruption agencies and call on every Nigerian to do the same.
The future of our nation depends on our ability to rid ourselves of this menace," Professor Nnaji declared.