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

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.

March 17, 2025 By Nurudeen Salako 0

HEDA 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.

March 14, 2025 By Nurudeen Salako 0

Anti-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.”

February 3, 2025 By Nurudeen Salako

HEDA News

HEDA Demands EFCC Investigation into Non-Executed Contracts in Ondo Community

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate and prosecute Gallet Nigeria Limited and Dredging Atlantic for failing to execute shoreline protection contracts in Ayetoro Community, Ondo State. In a petition to Mr. Olanipekun Olukoyede, EFCC Executive Chairman, HEDA’s Executive Secretary, Mr. Sulaimon Arigbabu, expressed concern over the worsening environmental and socio-economic crisis in the community. Oil exploration has caused significant land loss to Atlantic Ocean incursions, leaving many residents homeless and disrupting their livelihoods. In 2004, the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) awarded a ₦2.5 billion contract to Gallet Nigeria Limited, with a ₦650 million mobilization fee, to address shoreline erosion. After four years of non-execution, the contract was terminated. It was re-awarded in 2009 to Dredging Atlantic for ₦6.5 billion, with a ₦2.5 billion mobilization fee, but the project remained incomplete. HEDA highlighted the devastating impact of these failed contracts on Ayetoro, including displacement of residents and worsening climate challenges. The organization warned that continued neglect poses a broader threat to Nigeria’s coastal communities, potentially leading to submersion of cities along the Atlantic coastline. The civil society group urged the anti-graft agency to thoroughly investigate Gallet Nigeria Limited and Dredging Atlantic, prosecute those responsible, and recover misappropriated funds to address the community’s needs. “This is a clear case of how corruption deprives communities of essential resources while compounding environmental and socio-economic hardships,” said Arigbabu. “The EFCC must act decisively to restore accountability and bring justice to Ayetoro Community.” HEDA commended the EFCC for its anti-corruption efforts and expressed hope for swift resolution, alleviation of Ayetoro residents’ suffering, and safeguarding of Nigeria’s coastal regions. The organization reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, public accountability, and environmental justice, urging stakeholders to protect Ayetoro Community and ensure a sustainable future.

January 20, 2025 By Nurudeen Salako

HEDA News

EFCC Chairman, Olukoyede Commends HEDA’s Anti-Corruption Efforts at 20th Anniversary

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) efforts in the fight against corruption, advocating for social justice, and the organization 23 years of impact in Nigeria were lauded by the Economic Financial and Crimes Commission’s Chairman, Mr. Olanipekun Olukoyede at the organization’s 20th anniversary celebration. Speaking as the guest speaker at the anniversary lecture themed “Navigating the Nexus of Anticorruption and Good Governance in Nigeria: Striking a Balance for Economic, Social, and Environmental Justice,” Olukoyede lauded HEDA’s pivotal role in combating corruption and advocating for good governance in Nigeria. The EFCC boss, also disclosed that the EFCC had recovered over N60 billion and $10 million in under four months since assuming office. He highlighted the investigation of 3,000 out of the 5,000 petitions received, emphasizing innovative measures to prevent and minimize public fund embezzlement and financial crimes. Olukoyede reaffirmed his commitment to leveraging the anti-corruption agenda to boost Nigeria’s economy, stressing the need for collective responsibility in curbing corruption. In response, HEDA Chairman Mr. Olanrewaju Suraju acknowledged the daunting challenges in the anti-corruption fight and urged Nigerians to contribute from their spheres to the cause. He emphasized HEDA’s role in supporting agencies like the EFCC, ICPC, and others, calling for a robust policing system and judicial accountability to ensure effective corruption prosecution. The EFCC’s adherence to professionalism and the rule of law, Suraju noted, would encourage Nigerians’ participation in economic growth and development.

March 5, 2024 By heda

HEDA News

FG’s N5bn Palliative: HEDA wants transparent implementation, monitoring

In response to the recent announcement by the Federal Government to provide N5 billion as financial support to the 36 states, aimed at mitigating the impact of the removal of petrol subsidies, HEDA Resource Centre, has stressed the importance of transparent implementation frameworks and robust strategies to ensure accountability and effective utilization of these funds. The decision to remove the petrol subsidy has brought attention to the need for comprehensive and well-defined plans to channel resources for the betterment of the citizenry. HEDA firmly believes that a clear road map outlining how these funds will be disbursed and monitored is essential to prevent any misuse or mismanagement, diversion, or corruption as experienced with previous similar measures like SURE-P amongst others. In light of this, HEDA’s Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju urged all State governments to put forth detailed implementation strategies that demonstrate their commitment to the responsible allocation of resources. Furthermore, the NGO challenged President Bola Tinubu to take a proactive step toward ensuring the effectiveness and transparency of the financial support initiative from the administrators of the fund. “Transparent budgeting and regular updates on the utilization of the funds will foster public trust but also provide a mechanism for citizens to actively participate in overseeing the progress of projects aimed at easing the impact of the subsidy removal.” “We propose the involvement of institutions like the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to serve as a monitoring and evaluation team for the execution of these projects.” And further charge all stakeholders, community associations, professional groups, religious institutions, and artisan/labor unions to actively engage in the process and demand transparent and accountable administration of the funds. “This approach will undoubtedly enhance accountability, curb corruption, and enhance the overall impact of the support initiative. We call upon all stakeholders, including government agencies, civil society organizations, and the general public, to collectively ensure that the allocated funds are utilized judiciously and in alignment with the intended goals.

September 9, 2023 By heda