The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ilorin zonal office has expressed readiness its to collaborate with the Nigerian Army in the fight against terrorism and corruption Nigeria.
Assistant Commander of EFCC, Michael Nzekwe, stated this when the anti-graft agency Zonal Commander visited the 22 Armoured Brigade, Nigerian Army, Sobi Barracks, Ilorin Kwara State.
A statement by Wilson Uwujaren, Head, Media & Publicity of the agency, quoted Nzekwe saying, “the visit becomes imperative as the Army is a critical stakeholder in the fight against corruption and terrorism, which is part of our core mandate.
“It is, therefore, necessary and important for the Nigerian Army to join hands with us to end corruption in Nigeria by identifying and cutting off the source of financing for the terrorists.”
While calling for enhanced synergy between the two agencies, Nzekwe described the existing relationship as “cordial” saying, “The EFCC already has a cordial relationship with Nigerian Army. We have come a long way. One of our strategic plans and objectives says that, as a Commission, we must engage all stakeholders and work in synergy with all Law Enforcement Agencies, LEAs, in order to deliver on our mandate”.
He further stated that the mandate of the EFCC and that of the Army were intertwined and complementary. He is optimistic that, if the two agencies partner very well in the discharge of their duties, Nigeria would be the greatest beneficiary.
“While the Army ensures territorial stability and peace all round, the EFCC fights corruption to ensure socio-economic stability for the people of the country”, he said.
Responding, the Brigade Commander, Brigadier-General Adebayo Babalola who was delighted with the visit said, ‘’Your success as an agency of Government is our success. The military high command believes much in collaboration and synergy. To this end, I can assure you that anytime you need our support, you will get it because no agency of government can do it alone”, he said.
Babalola commended the giant strides of the EFCC, as he noted that the Nigeria Army would continue to strengthen ties with the Commission in its efforts to rid the country of corruption.
“The corruption level in the country must be checked if we want development in every facet of our lives”, he said.
Sikirat Shehu, Ilorin
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