By: Joy Odor/Kaduna
As Nigeria approaches 2019 general election, the Acting Chairman, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Ibrahim Magu has stressed the commission commitment’s to remain impartial and unbiased in the discharge of its duties by ensuring vote-buying becomes a thing of the past in Nigeria.
Mr. Magu who made this know in his keynote address during the 2nd Edition of a High Level Strategic Session and Policy Roundtable on the ‘Role of the Media in Anti-Corruption Campaign: Journey So Far’ organized by the Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD) said the commission would play its role effectively to ensure free and fair election come 2019 election.
Represented by the Acting Spokesperson of EFCC, Mr. Tony Orilade, Magu said the main problem militating against the development of Nigeria is corruption, adding that it is a cankerworm that has eaten deep into the fabrics of the society with its attendant ills on the citizenry.
He said, “The quest to ensure that EFCC does not create an environment for corrupt to take over the society, is one that belongs to all and sundry, including the media, saying journalists and bloggers, are not only the writers of history but are expected to be partners in progress with the EFCC in uniting to fight against corruption.
“I dare say that the media has the capability to make or mar anyone. Indeed, it is often said that the pen is mightier than the sword, and this is true in all essence of the expression.
“For me, therefore, this platform of the Centre for Democracy and Development provides the opportunity to solicit support from the media in the fight against corruption, and in so doing, speak truth to the role of the media in the EFCC’s anti-corruption campaign, while sharing our experiences thus far.
“I have never at any point in time underestimated the important role, which the media has to play in the fight against corruption, and indeed, in achieving success for the EFCC’s anti-corruption crusade. That is the reason, why I try as much as is possible to engage with the media – the Fourth Estate of the Realm.
“I consider the Centre for Democracy and Development an important ally in the fight against corruption, and I must put it on the record that I am delighted to be in your midst today.
“Equally important, is the germane issue that has been brought up for discourse for this extraordinary session – “Anti-Corruption Strategy and Media Engagement: Journey So Far”. It is a well-thought-out topic.
“The Centre for Democracy and Development is a key partner in achieving the mission of the EFCC in curbing corruption in our society is obvious, considering its contributions to national discourse when it comes to the issue of fighting corruption.
“It is one of the reasons, why I deemed it of utmost importance to honour this invitation, in spite of my very tight and busy schedule.”
Mr. Magu therefore implored media professionals, to support the anti-corruption drive of President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration called on the media to join hands with the EFCC in its preventive measures to ensure that the war against corruption is won.
