From Femi Oyelola, Kaduna
The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) has expressed deep concern over the state of anti-corruption efforts in Nigeria, particularly in light of recent developments within the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).
Also, the Northern Awareness Network (NAN), strongly condemned the ongoing controversy surrounding Former Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
AYCF, in a statement through its President General Yerima Shettima, believed that the current federal anti-graft agencies have failed to effectively combat corruption and called for the establishment of state-owned anti-corruption bodies to address this critical issue.
He averred that the recent challenges faced by the EFCC underscored the need for a new approach to fighting corruption in Nigeria, adding that the forum recognized that the EFCC’s reliance on procedural technicalities and its inability to operate in certain states due to court orders have hampered its effectiveness.
It adds: “This has led to a growing disillusionment with the agency’s ability to deliver on its mandate. In light of these shortcomings, the AYCF said the forum supports the recent move by Lagos State to establish its anti-corruption commission, separate from federal agencies like the EFCC and ICPC.
“This decision represents a necessary step towards decentralizing anti-corruption efforts and empowering states to take control of investigations within their borders.”
The AYCF said it also believed that state-led anti-graft agencies are better equipped to address corruption at the local level and act swiftly to hold perpetrators accountable and also acknowledge the concerns raised by other states, such as Kogi, where allegations of financial misconduct have raised questions about the EFCC’s impartiality and effectiveness.
“The AYCF believes that the establishment of state-owned anti-corruption bodies will help address these concerns and ensure that corruption is tackled in a transparent and accountable manner.
“We believe that this shift will lead to more effective and localized anti-corruption efforts, ultimately strengthening Nigeria’s fight against graft”, it stated.
AYCF urges other states to follow Lagos’ lead and take control of their anti-corruption initiatives to ensure a more transparent and accountable governance system.
On its part, the Northern Awareness Network condemned the ongoing controversy surrounding Former Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
According to its Chairman, Salihu Suleiman, the situation highlights the complexities and politicization that can arise within federal anti-corruption agencies, hindering the pursuit of justice.
“However, conflicting narratives and inconsistent reports have clouded the case, with rumors of an “arrest” further complicating matters. This unfortunate situation underscores the inefficiencies and confusion that can plague federal anti-graft efforts.
“The politicization of anti-corruption agencies in Nigeria is not a new phenomenon, with many high-profile cases being subject to interference and manipulation for political gain. The case of Bello is just the latest example of how these agencies can be used as tools to settle political scores rather than to uphold the rule of law and combat corruption effectively.”
“In light of these challenges, NAN advocates for the establishment and empowerment of state-owned anti-corruption bodies.
“The recent law passed by the Lagos State House of Assembly, which restricts external agencies like the EFCC and the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) from investigating cases related to Lagos State’s finances and assets, is a significant step towards enhancing autonomy in the fight against corruption.”
“Section 13(3) of the law, which grants the Lagos State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission authority over such investigations, is a crucial move to address long-standing issues of inefficiency and jurisdictional complexities.
“The provision in the new law is a response to concerns over the effectiveness, neutrality, and technicalities of investigations conducted by federal anti-graft bodies. Lagos State, being a key economic player in Nigeria, is particularly susceptible to politically motivated investigations.
“By entrusting the responsibility of anti-corruption investigations to a locally controlled commission, the state is asserting its right to ensure transparency, efficiency, and fairness in handling cases involving its finances.
“This measure is not intended to shield officials from accountability but rather to streamline anti-graft efforts and reduce external interference that often hampers investigations.
“One of the primary arguments in support of the new law is its potential to address the issue of frivolous orders and technicalities that impede federal anti-corruption efforts. Federal agencies like the EFCC and ICPC frequently encounter legal challenges and court injunctions that delay or derail corruption investigations.
“By transferring investigatory authority to a state-level body, such delays can be mitigated. A locally based commission is better equipped to navigate Lagos State’s legal, financial, and administrative frameworks, leading to quicker and more accurate processing of cases.
“Additionally, the absence of federal overreach and political interference can expedite investigations, serving the public interest more effectively.”
“By taking charge of their anti-graft initiatives, states can contribute to a more balanced and efficient system of accountability tailored to their specific needs. The law passed by the Lagos State House of Assembly marks a significant step in this direction, signaling a shift towards greater autonomy and effectiveness in combating corruption”, he stated.
