The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has called on religious leaders across Nigeria to play a more active role in the fight against corruption. Speaking during a meeting with a delegation from The Citizens Church for All Nations at the EFCC’s headquarters in Abuja, Olukoyede emphasized the vital role that religious institutions can play in fostering integrity and honesty within society. Represented by his Chief of Staff, Michael Nzekwe, Olukoyede stressed that religious leaders should use their platforms to preach against corruption and promote ethical behavior.
“If we do the right things in our little spaces, Nigeria will be a better place,” Olukoyede said. He urged religious leaders, including pastors and imams, to speak out about the dangers of corruption and to guide their followers toward living with integrity. “We expect them to play a role by telling the truth about the consequences of corruption,” he added, highlighting the need for religious institutions to lead by example in encouraging honesty from the family to the community.
The EFCC chairman also expressed concern about individuals living beyond their means within religious communities, noting that religious leaders often turn a blind eye to such behavior. “We must come to that level where we speak the truth to the powers that be in our congregations,” Olukoyede said, stressing that church and mosque leaders must take responsibility for guiding their followers in matters of integrity. He urged religious leaders to speak out against corruption and dishonesty in their communities, reinforcing the need for honesty in all aspects of life.
Additionally, Olukoyede warned religious leaders against using religion as a cover for fraudulent activities, reinforcing the EFCC’s commitment to upholding ethical standards in both Christian and Muslim practices. He called for unity in promoting a culture of transparency and accountability, emphasizing that tackling corruption requires collective action from all segments of society, including religious institutions.
Pastor Dickson Iroegbu, who led the church delegation, thanked the EFCC for its ongoing efforts in fighting corruption and commended the commission for its role in protecting Nigeria’s reputation. “We celebrate the work you are doing for our nation and recognize that, without God, nothing can be achieved,” Iroegbu said. He assured the EFCC of the church’s support and offered prayers for the continued success of the commission in its efforts to build a more honest and transparent Nigeria.
