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EFCC Reaffirms Commitment to Asset Recovery at UNCAC Conference in Qatar

The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to the fight against financial crimes and the recovery and repatriation of illicit financial flows to Nigeria. Olukoyede gave the assurance while speaking at the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) Conference in Doha, Qatar, during a side event themed “Recovering the Loot Is an Obstacle Course: New Mechanisms?” The event was jointly organised by the Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre), Nigeria; the Special Investigating Unit (SIU), South Africa; the EFCC, Nigeria; and Integrity Initiatives International. He described asset recovery as a core pillar of Nigeria’s anti-corruption strategy and highlighted achievements recorded by the EFCC over the past two years, including increased prosecutions, recovery of proceeds of crime, forfeiture of luxury assets, and restitution to victims, both locally and internationally. According to him, the commission has strengthened collaboration with international partners, leading to the recovery and repatriation of funds and assets traced to jurisdictions such as Spain, Switzerland and the United Kingdom. He also cited the application of non-conviction-based asset recovery mechanisms under the Proceeds of Crime (Recovery and Management) Act (POCA), 2022, which he said has improved transparency in asset management and enhanced restitution to victims. Speaking on challenges confronting the commission, Olukoyede identified the complexity of cross-border asset recovery as a major obstacle, noting that differences in legal frameworks and limited cooperation from some countries often delay recovery efforts. He also raised concerns about the role of corrupt professional networks, including lawyers and financial experts, who facilitate financial crimes across borders. Also speaking at the event, the Head and Chief Executive of South Africa’s Special Investigating Unit, Advocate Andy Mothibi, emphasised the importance of asset recovery in the global anti-corruption fight. He noted that several African anti-graft agencies have adopted legislative and institutional frameworks similar to Nigeria’s EFCC model, including asset forfeiture units, specialised investigation teams, and dedicated tribunals to handle corruption-related cases. The participants at the session called on both state and non-state actors to intensify support for anti-corruption efforts, protect whistleblowers, and back the establishment of an International Anti-Corruption Court. In his remarks, Hon. Allan Rock, former Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada and a board member of Integrity Initiatives International, underscored the need for an international anti-corruption court, saying ongoing work on the draft framework aims to produce a representative document for consideration by governments by 2026. Similarly, the Special Envoy for Anti-Corruption at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Ambassador Caroline Weijers, stressed that corruption undermines all sectors of society and must be tackled collectively. She called for principled, selfless leadership, stronger regional cooperation, and sustained legal and institutional reforms to combat corruption globally.

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fayose-obasanjo CategoriesAnti-corruption HEDA News

HEDA Petitions EFCC Over Alleged Money Laundering Involving Fayose, Obasanjo

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has petitioned the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), demanding a full investigation into an alleged money-laundering transaction involving former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose and former President Olusegun Obasanjo. In the petition signed by HEDA’s Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, addressed to the EFCC Chairman, Mr. Olanipekun Olukoyede, the civil society organization referenced a report by The Nigeria Lawyer on 25 November 2025, which stated that Mr. Fayose admitted to giving former President Obasanjo $20,000 cash as “travel logistics” for attending his 65th birthday celebration in Lagos. The organisation noted that former President Obasanjo also publicly confirmed returning the money in cash. Meanwhile, HEDA maintained that the exchange constitutes a breach of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, which limits cash transactions to ₦5 million for individuals and mandates that higher sums be conducted through financial institutions. The group noted that Section 19 of the Act prescribes penalties for violations. According to Suraju, the statements credited to both men amount to an admission of a financial transaction carried out in cash well beyond the legal threshold, therefore the development requires immediate and diligent investigation and prosecution. The civil group further urged the anti-graft agency to act swiftly, warning that failure to address the incident could undermine ongoing efforts to curb money laundering and de-dollarise the Nigerian economy. HEDA cited the recent conviction of Mr. Precious Uzondu for conducting business in foreign currency as an example of the Commission’s renewed enforcement drive. HEDA reiterated its commitment to accountability and called on the EFCC to demonstrate independence and uphold the rule of law by treating the allegation with the seriousness it deserves.

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HEDA's Executive Secretary Sulaimon Arigbabu CategoriesAnti-corruption HEDA News

Corruption not merely a financial crime but a development crisis – HEDA

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) Executive Secretary Sulaimon Arigbabu, has said the unveiling of the ninth edition of the compendium reaffirms the organisation’s commitment to accountability, transparency, and civic engagement. Arigbabu described corruption as “not merely a financial crime but a development crisis” that erodes public trust and deprives citizens of essential services. He encouraged youths, lawyers, media professionals, and civil society actors to use the compendium as a tool for advocacy, research, and public enlightenment. Similarly, speaking on the broader context of corruption, Adeola Soetan, a public affairs analyst, described Nigeria’s corruption landscape as “both beautiful and awkward” during the compendium presentation. He cited high-profile cases, including embezzlement by public officials and business leaders, and underscored systemic issues such as judicial delays, political interference, and technical legal manoeuvres that allow perpetrators to evade accountability. He praised whistleblowers, civil society, and anti-corruption agencies like the EFCC and ICPC for their roles in exposing malpractices. Representatives of key institutions also delivered goodwill messages. Nita Chikura, representing ICPC Chairman Musa Aliyu, who is a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), urged stronger youth involvement, citing programmes such as Anti-Corruption Clubs in schools and Student Anti-Corruption Vanguards in tertiary institutions. Zandra Eguavoen of the National Orientation Agency (NOA) highlighted the role of youths in national value renewal and civic responsibility, while Oluwakemi Peters of the Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA) called for collective action across sectors to combat corruption and protect consumer rights. Mary Omonoyan of ICPC further encouraged youths to adopt innovative approaches, using digital platforms and tech initiatives to expose corrupt acts, promote accountability, and foster social responsibility. She also warned against prioritising material wealth over civic and moral obligations, urging parents and communities to instil ethical values in children from an early age. Concluding the event, stakeholders agreed that corruption can only be effectively tackled through collective engagement, ethical leadership, and practical initiatives. They reaffirmed the centrality of Nigerian youths in driving a culture of integrity and shaping a corruption-free future.

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CategoriesClimate change

HEDA Congratulates EFCC Chairman on Prestigious Award

The Human and Environmental Developmental Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has extended warm congratulations to the Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Ola Olukoyede, following his receipt of a Certificate of Recognition from the Canadian High Commission. This prestigious award acknowledges Olukoyede’s outstanding contributions to combating transnational crime. According to the leading civil society organisation, the EFCC has played a crucial role in curbing organized crime, strengthening security, and promoting justice under Olukoyede’s leadership. The commission’s efforts in tackling financial fraud, vehicle trafficking, online exploitation, and drug smuggling have garnered international recognition. HEDA’s Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju commended Olukoyede’s leadership and the EFCC’s commitment to professionalism, expressing pride in their achievements and looking forward to continued collaboration in the fight against corruption and financial crimes. The organization celebrated this milestone as a testament to the EFCC’s dedication to justice and security.

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CategoriesClimate change

HEDA Sets Anti-Corruption, Good Governance Agenda for Tinubu at Mid-Term Mark; Commended EFCC on handing over of recovered 753 Houses to Government

As President Bola Ahmed Tinubu marks two years in office under the Renewed Hope Agenda, the Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has urged the administration to recalibrate its governance strategy with a renewed focus on transparency, accountability, and inclusive development. In a statement signed by its HEDA’s Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, the civil society organisation acknowledged key strides made by the current administration but emphasized that the country’s worsening poverty rate, weak anti-corruption mechanisms, and erosion of democratic accountability demand urgent intervention. Suraju noted that while commendable efforts have been recorded by anti-corruption agencies and reforms in the passport issuance process, the legal autonomy granted to local governments, Nigerian Education Loan Fund, and infrastructure development, the impact of economic reforms has been severely undercut by inflation, rising debt, and unaddressed corruption scandals. “President Tinubu came into power at a time when Nigerians were yearning for credible leadership, economic stability, and justice. Two years later, while some progress has been made, millions of Nigerians are still trapped in multidimensional poverty, insecurity persists, and anti-corruption enforcement remains challenging,” Suraju noted. HEDA further called on the Tinubu administration to demonstrate greater political will by prosecuting high-profile individuals implicated in corruption scandals, particularly within key ministries, departments and agencies. It expressed concern that the much-publicized Conditional Cash Transfer programme and other social investment schemes have been marred by lack of transparency and poor monitoring mechanisms. The group also urged the government to publish regular audit reports, enforce the Freedom of Information Act, and empower anti-graft institutions to operate independently and without political interference. “Much of the hardship in the country is exacerbated by unbridled public spending, such as billions allocated for luxury vehicles for lawmakers, religious pilgrimages, and underused official residences, at a time when universities remain underfunded and basic amenities are scarce,” Suraju stated. HEDA stressed the importance of institutionalizing reforms that go beyond superficial palliatives. It pointed to the need for a stronger justice system, improved citizen engagement, and protection of civil liberties. The group criticized the heavy-handed response to peaceful protests like the #EndBadGovernance demonstrations and called for greater tolerance of dissent in a democratic setting. HEDA further commended the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission on the recent official handing over of 753 housing units recovered from the immediate past Central Bank Governor, Godwin Emefiele to the federal government for management, and demand transparency and accountability in the administration and allocation of the recovered proceeds of crimes to victims of Emefiele’s corrupt activities. “As the country navigates the next two years of Tinubu’s administration, it is imperative to place citizens’ welfare and institutional integrity at the heart of governance. We urge the President to lead a national reorientation process that prioritize accountability, competence, and service delivery across all levels of government.” He added.

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CategoriesClimate change

EFCC’s Monitoring of MDA Budget Implementation a Bold Step Towards Preventive Anti-Corruption in Nigeria — HEDA

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has commended the Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Mr. Ola Olukoyede, for his commission commitment to budget transparency and preventive anti-corruption measures, especially in the monitoring of Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) in the 2025 budget cycle. During a recent courtesy visit to the EFCC corporate headquarters by a delegation of HEDA Resource Centre led by its Chairman, Mr. Olanrewaju Suraju, Mr. Olukoyede disclosed that the Commission is actively tracking funds released to MDAs to ensure that public resources are not misappropriated. HEDA views this proactive move as a significant and commendable shift from reactive recoveries to preventive strategies, which aligns with global best practices in anti-corruption. Mr. Suraju, on behalf of HEDA, lauded the Commission’s performance under Olukoyede’s leadership, particularly the unprecedented conviction and recovery rates recorded in 2024. “At HEDA Resource Centre, we consider the EFCC not just an agency, but a symbol of Nigeria’s anti-corruption resolve. The international perception of Nigeria would have been far worse but for the integrity and efforts consistently demonstrated by the Commission,” he said. He also praised the Commission for expanding its focus to emerging areas of corruption such as environmental degradation and extractive industry abuses.  “This forward-thinking approach deserves commendation. We believe this is a trail worth blazing and sustaining,” Suraju added. HEDA further reiterates its unwavering support for the EFCC and commits to continued partnership in promoting accountability, transparency, and good governance. The pivotal visit including HEDA’s Executive Secretary, Mr. Sulaimon Arigbabu; Liaison, Legal and Program Officer, Dabotonye Dappa; Cecilia Ogwuche, Azeez Salau, further deepens the collaboration between both institutions as they work towards building a Nigeria where public funds serve public interests.

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CategoriesHEDA News

HEDA Commends EFCC’s Anti-Corruption Efforts on Ex-AGF Idris N109 Billion Fraud Case, Calls for Swift Judicial Action

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has commended the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for its unwavering commitment to fighting corruption. This commitment is evident in the ongoing trial of former Accountant-General of the Federation (AGF), Ahmed Idris, and others accused of diverting N109.5 billion in public funds. In a statement signed by HEDA’s Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, the group commended the EFCC’s resolve in pursuing the case. He emphasized, “The massive scale of the alleged fraud highlights the urgent need for accountability in public office. We urge the judiciary to ensure justice is served promptly, as prolonged trials can embolden corruption and erode public trust in our legal system.” While acknowledging the importance of due process, the anti-corruption group stresses that justice should not be compromised by technicalities or unnecessary delays. Suraju added, “The judiciary plays a vital role in reinforcing Nigeria’s anti-corruption fight by handling cases like this with urgency and fairness. We demand the same level of commitment in handling the case of former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello.” HEDA further demand the prosecution of States Commissioners of Finance and Governor who were part of the Paris club refund corruption for the which the former Accountant General is standing trial. HEDA remains committed to advocating for transparency, accountability, and good governance. The civil society organization calls on all stakeholders in the justice system to work towards a judicial process that strengthens Nigeria’s anti-corruption framework, ensuring those found guilty face the full consequences of the law.

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CategoriesHEDA News

HEDA 38th ACSR: Stakeholders Urge President Tinubu to Intensify Anti-Corruption Efforts

Stakeholders in Nigeria’s fight against corruption convened at the 38th Anti-Corruption Situation Room (ACSR), organized by the Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre). They called on President Bola Tinubu to adopt a holistic approach to combat corruption, addressing all sectors and managing public expectations. They also urged the implementation of the National Anti-Corruption Strategy 2022-2026 as a working document. The event, themed “Ethics, Integrity, Corruption Risk Assessments, and Anti-Corruption at National and Sub-National Levels in Nigeria: Sustaining the Fight Against Corruption,” aimed to engage stakeholders in responding to the country’s recent corruption perception rating, addressing pervasive issues of corruption and impunity, and fostering a culture of ethical respect, integrity, and accountability at all levels of governance. Participants emphasized that deterrence remains the best strategy in the fight against corruption. They called for sustained punishment for corrupt individuals and improvements in the quality of investigations and law enforcement. Despite the challenges, participants expressed hope and agreed to intensify efforts to eradicate corruption for Nigeria’s prosperity, social, economic, and political renaissance. Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, decried the state of corruption in Nigeria, describing it as a major obstacle to the country’s development. He urged Nigerians to support law enforcement agencies in holding corrupt persons accountable. He said, “The fight against corruption is for everyone. When you see people being investigated and we have shown you the evidence, don’t join them to carry placards and abuse EFCC, ICPC, and because you are contributing to the problems. All of us must fight this corruption together” Speaking as the keynote speaker on the theme, “Fostering Integrity and Accountability to Reclaim Our Future: Strategies for Combating Corruption and Impunity Across Board in Nigeria,” Prof. Shehu Abdullah identified strong political will and an effective legislative framework as key strategies to combat corruption and impunity in Nigeria. He also urged state actors to prioritize accountability, stating, “Earning the trust and confidence of the citizens through accountability is critical in combating corruption. Involving the people and ensuring the accessibility of civil society are essential.” Prof. Abdullah emphasized the importance of public officials declaring their assets and ensuring such declarations are verified. He called for the strengthening of regimes to prevent corruption and bring corrupt actors to justice. “Despite the importance of prevention, deterrence remains the best option,” he concluded. Human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) challenged anti-corruption agencies to go beyond prosecuting financial crimes in the courts and actively engage citizens in the fight against corruption. He stressed the importance of framing corruption in ways that resonate with ordinary Nigerians, particularly at the grassroots level. Chairman of HEDA Resource Centre, Olanrewaju Suraju, highlighted the need for political will to enforce and implement anti-corruption laws effectively. He emphasized the critical role of civil society, the media, and the public in promoting transparency and pushing for accountability, especially in an environment where politicians might lack the will to pursue anti-corruption agendas. “The only problem we consistently contend with is the commitment and the will to implement the laws. If we can implement 50 percent of the laws in Nigeria, we will be far better than where we are.” He added. The conference included three key sessions: Leveraging Media, Technology, and Civil Society Partnerships to Combat Impunity and Promote Corruption Prevention; promoting Judicial Independence, Rule of Law, and Ethical Leadership for Integrity in Public and Private Sectors; and Enhancing Integrity and Accountability in the Public Sector to Strengthen Anti-Corruption Agencies and Combat Grand Corruption for Sustainable Governance. Participants concluded the conference with a renewed sense of hope and commitment to intensifying efforts to combat corruption, ensuring Nigeria’s leadership in the regional and international arena.

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CategoriesAnti-corruption

N480 Million Bribery Allegation: HEDA Calls on EFCC, ICPC to Probe Nigerian Lawmakers Targeting University Vice-Chancellors

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) strongly condemns another revelation of an alleged bribery scheme orchestrated by some lawmakers in the National Assembly, as reported by Premium Times. According to the investigative report, members of the Senate Committee on Tertiary Education and TETFund, alongside their counterparts in the House Committee on University Education, have allegedly demanded a staggering N480 million in bribes from vice-chancellors of federal universities to approve their 2025 budget allocations. In a statement signed by HEDA’s Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, the civil society group finds these allegations deeply disturbing, as they not only violate ethical and legal standards but also further entrench corruption in Nigeria’s education sector, which is already plagued by chronic underfunding and administrative challenges. According to Suraju, “It is unacceptable that university administrators, who are entrusted with managing the country’s citadels of learning, are being subjected to intimidation and coercion by lawmakers who should be championing transparency and accountability.” “We call on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to immediately commence a thorough investigation into this matter. The lawmakers allegedly involved must be identified, investigated, and, if found guilty, prosecuted to the full extent of the law. Corruption, particularly in the education sector, undermines national development, weakens institutions, and erodes public trust in governance.” Furthermore, HEDA urges President Bola Tinubu and the leadership of the National Assembly to take decisive action in addressing this scandal. The National Assembly must not become a breeding ground for corruption; rather, it should uphold the principles of integrity and good governance. He added, “If these allegations, which is becoming a recurring decimal after similar allegations of extortion were leveled against the legislators are confirmed, disciplinary measures must be taken against those responsible to serve as a deterrent to others who may seek to exploit their positions for personal gain.” HEDA remains committed to advocating for transparency, good governance, and accountability in Nigeria. “We call on all stakeholders, including civil society organizations, the media, the general public, and particularly managements of the higher institutions to resist and expose corruption wherever it is found. Our education sector deserves better, and those entrusted with making policies should be held accountable for their actions.”

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