Unifying Forces: EFCC's Call to Judiciary and Media in Corruption Crackdown

Ola Olukoyede, the chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), urged the media and judiciary to keep up their support for Nigeria's anti-corruption initiatives.

Olukoyede urged journalists to continue being brave, strong, and unified in their efforts to hold public officials responsible, and he specifically commended the media for its vital role in the fight against corruption.

Speaking at the Nigerian Association of Judicial Correspondents (NAJUC) Annual Lecture in Lagos, the head of the EFCC also emphasized the importance of the media as a watchdog in the fight for justice and openness.

"It boosts our morale and strengthens our resolve to continue the fight with renewed vigor when our efforts are acknowledged, as they are today," he said.

Olukoyede emphasized the media's role in fostering accountability and national integrity, noting that many Nigerians now see the battle against corruption as a patriotic duty.

"We have to acknowledge the harsh reality that every corrupt deed compromises our national ambitions and sense of collective dignity. Corruption must be tolerated any longer," he continued. "We need to be united, firm, and determined."

He urged greater cooperation between sectors, emphasizing that the media may influence public opinion, reveal corruption, and foster an environment where honesty is valued and wrongdoing is penalized.

Justice Folashade Bankole-Oki demanded immediate changes to Nigeria's legal system in her keynote speech. She issued a warning that public faith in the court is eroding and urged the government, judiciary, legal community, and media to work together to rebuild confidence.

"It is imperative that Nigeria's judicial system be strengthened. "Public trust has been undermined, and with good reason," she said.

In order to address systemic inefficiencies, she promoted the use of contemporary technologies, global best practices, and greater public involvement. In order to alleviate backlogs and delays, she advocated for the statewide adoption of online dispute resolution, e-filing, virtual hearings, and paperless trials, highlighting efforts in the Lagos State Judiciary.