The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has issued a powerful call to Nigerian media professionals, urging them to use their platforms to actively expose fraud, financial crimes, and corruption in all sectors of society.
Olukoyede made the appeal in Warri, Delta State, while addressing the 12th Annual Conference of the Association of Communication Scholars and Professionals of Nigeria (ACSPN). He was represented at the event by Assistant Commander of the EFCC and Head of Public Affairs, Benin Zonal Directorate, Williams Oseghale.
Speaking on the conference theme, “Corruption, Governance and Media in Nigeria,” the EFCC boss commended the ACSPN for focusing on the media’s crucial role in strengthening governance. He described the media as a vital partner in holding leaders accountable and safeguarding the nation’s democracy, emphasizing its constitutional mandate as the “Fourth Estate of the Realm.”
Recalling the historic contributions of pioneers like Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe and Chief Anthony Enahoro, Olukoyede noted that the media had long been at the forefront of Nigeria’s struggles against colonialism, social injustice, and military misrule. He implored contemporary journalists to uphold that legacy by embracing investigative journalism and exposing 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,” Olukoyede said. “Current journalists must emulate their predecessors by exposing the atrocities of fraudsters and those who divert public resources.”
He added that corruption can only be defeated if citizens individually and collectively embrace accountability, transparency, and due process. Olukoyede also urged the media to continue supporting the EFCC in its mission to educate Nigerians on the devastating effects of corruption.
Also speaking at the event, ACSPN President, Professor Rotimi Williams Olatunji, affirmed the timeliness of the conference theme. He highlighted that corruption erodes governance, economic growth, social justice, and public trust, while acknowledging the ongoing challenges confronting the Nigerian media. He stressed that such forums provide invaluable opportunities for practitioners to share ideas and advance communication scholarship.
