The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, appealed to the judiciary and the media to continue supporting Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts.
Olukoyede particularly praised the media for its crucial role in the fight against corruption efforts and also called on journalists to remain courageous, resilient, and united in holding public officials accountable.
The EFCC boss, who spoke at the Nigerian Association of Judicial Correspondents (NAJUC) Annual Lecture in Lagos, also emphasised that the media must continue as a vital watchdog in pursuing justice and transparency.
“When our efforts are acknowledged, as they are today, it serves as a morale booster and strengthens our resolve to continue the fight with renewed vigour,” he stated.
Olukoyede pointed out that many Nigerians now view the fight against corruption as a patriotic duty, highlighting the media’s role in promoting accountability and national integrity.
“We must accept the painful truth that every corrupt act undermines our collective dignity and national aspirations. We can no longer treat corruption lightly,” he added. “We must be firm, resolute, and united.”
He called for broader collaboration across various sectors, stressing that the media can shape public discourse, expose wrongdoing, and cultivate a culture where integrity is celebrated while misconduct is punished.
In her keynote address, Justice Folashade Bankole-Oki called for urgent reforms in Nigeria’s justice system. She warned that public confidence in the judiciary is diminishing and called for joint efforts among the government, judiciary, legal professionals, and the media to restore trust.
“There is an urgent need to strengthen the administration of justice in Nigeria. Public trust has eroded—and rightly so,” she said.
She advocated adopting modern technology, international best practices, and increased public engagement to tackle systemic inefficiencies. Highlighting initiatives in the Lagos State Judiciary, she called for the nationwide implementation of virtual hearings, e-filing, online dispute resolution, and paperless trials to address delays and backlogs.
