The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Nigeria has emphasized the need for increased partnership and collaboration with the media to tackle the rising cases of real estate crimes, money laundering, and internet crimes in the country. Recognizing the important role that journalists play in reporting and exposing these criminal activities, the EFCC organized a workshop for journalists in Akwa Ibom State on “Effective Reporting of Economic and Financial Crimes.”
During the workshop, the acting Executive Chairman of the EFCC, Abdulkarim Chukkol, expressed gratitude to journalists for their efforts in reporting the commission’s activities and acknowledged the media’s role in bringing criminals to justice. Chukkol assured the public of the EFCC’s commitment to addressing the rise in real estate crimes but also cautioned citizens to be cautious of individuals impersonating EFCC officials to extort money from unsuspecting victims.
Mr. Dele Oyewale, the Assistant Director of Media and Publicity at the EFCC, emphasized the commission’s successful interventions in reducing cybercrimes despite the challenges it faces. Oyewale urged journalists to maintain impartiality and professionalism in their investigative reporting.
Assistant Commander Emeka Ukpai, during his lecture on “Trends, Peculiarities, and Challenges of Cybercrime Enforcement in Nigeria,” highlighted the country’s negative reputation as a breeding ground for cybercrime. Nigeria has a significant percentage of Nigerian involvement in cybercrimes, both locally and internationally.
The EFCC is actively seeking to strengthen collaboration, synergy, and cooperation with the media to combat economic and financial crimes effectively. By working together, the EFCC and the media can contribute to cracking down on these criminal activities and protecting the public.
Sources: Egufe Yafugborhi & Chioma Onuegbu – The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC)