The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to take the lead in ensuring credible, free, and fair elections across Nigeria.
Oshodi Johnson, Acting Zonal Director of the EFCC, Uyo Zonal Directorate, made the call during a courtesy visit by Obo Effanga, Akwa Ibom State Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), and his team to the Commission’s office in Uyo.
Oshodi emphasized that INEC carries a critical responsibility in safeguarding Nigeria’s democratic process.
“The responsibility on your shoulder is huge. As we all serve in our respective capacities under the Federal Government, we must do so diligently. You must take the lead in ensuring free and fair elections across the country”, he said.
He noted that elections remain the “lifeblood of democracy” and warned that allowing corrupt influences to shape the process could endanger the nation’s progress.
“Elections determine the nation’s future. If the wrong individuals are elected, we all suffer. Therefore, it is our collective duty to protect the integrity of the electoral process,” Oshodi stated.
In his response, Effanga said the visit aimed to strengthen inter-agency collaboration in promoting credible and transparent elections.
According to him, elections are a shared national project that require the cooperation of all stakeholders.
“Election is a national project; it does not rest solely on INEC. We are only facilitators in Nigeria’s democratic process, and we must ensure that all hands are on deck for success,” Effanga said.
He commended the EFCC’s role as a member of the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security, which coordinates security and integrity measures during elections.
Oshodi reaffirmed the EFCC’s commitment to working with INEC and other relevant bodies to curb electoral malpractices such as vote-buying, financial inducement, and money laundering linked to election financing.
“I want to assure you that we are in this together, and your visit shows that our efforts and partnership are being recognized,” he said, underscoring the Commission’s readiness to provide operational support during upcoming electoral exercises.
Dele Oyewale, EFCC’s media head, noted that the engagement forms part of the Commission’s strategy to deepen collaboration with key national institutions in promoting transparency and accountability, particularly in the conduct of elections.