EFCC seeks stronger collaboration with CSOs, Media to tackle cyber, financial crimes

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has called for stronger collaboration with Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) and the media to combat emerging cyber and financial crimes in Nigeria.

Sa’ad Hanafi-Sa’ad, Acting Zonal Director, EFCC, Kano Zonal Directorate, made the call on Thursday in Kano during a one-day sensitisation workshop for CSOs and journalists.

Hanafi-Sa’ad said the workshop was organised to strengthen cooperation with key non-state actors in curbing corruption, cyber-enabled fraud, and cryptocurrency-related crimes.

He described CSOs and journalists as ”critical drivers of change”, noting that their roles in holding power accountable and raising public awareness were vital in the fight against economic crimes.

He said that the choice of participants for the workshop was deliberate and strategic.

”You are not merely observers; you are indispensable allies in safeguarding our economy and collective future,” he said.

The EFCC zonal director outlined the objectives of the workshop to include educating participants on cryptocurrency fraud and other emerging financial crimes, highlighting the challenges in prosecuting such offences, and fostering collaboration in developing preventive measures.

He also expressed concern over the rapid evolution of financial crimes.

According to him, we are witnessing a dramatic shift from traditional schemes to sophisticated cyber-enabled fraud.

“These crimes destroy livelihoods, wipe out life savings, and undermine confidence in our financial systems.”

He urged participants to use the forum for open dialogue and sustained engagement with the EFCC with a view to enhancing public enlightenment and collective vigilance.

”Our fight against corruption is not a solo mission; it is a collective national endeavour that requires synergy, trust, and shared intelligence,” Hanafi-Sa’ad added.

The Head of Legal and Prosecution Department, EFCC, Kano Directorate, Jafar Alkasim, delivered a paper on ”Prosecuting Financial Crimes: Issues, Challenges and the Way Forward”.

Other presentations include ”Understanding Cryptocurrency Fraud and Other Emerging Financial Crimes” by Samuel Agbi, and ”The Role of CSOs and Media in Driving a Preventive Framework” by Mr Dele Oyewole, Head of Media and Publicity, EFCC Headquarters.

Oyewole during his presentation disclosed that the commission had secured 17,000 convictions in the last 22 years.

NAN reports that the workshop brought together representatives of civil society groups, journalists from print and broadcast media, and EFCC officials from the Public Affairs and Legal Departments.