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 Report Exposes Oil Licensing Flaws, Weak Regulations, Environmental Injustice

As part of its effort to ensure transparency and accountability in the Nigeria’s oil licensing bidding process, the Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has exposed serious flaws in Nigeria’s oil licensing process, highlighting regulatory failures, financial misconduct, and environmental injustice in the Niger Delta. At the public presentation of its latest report in Ikeja, Lagos, HEDA revealed that several companies awarded marginal oil field licenses in the 2020/2021 bidding round lacked proper registration and failed to meet legal and financial requirements. The report, with the support from Africa Centre for Energy Policy (ACEP), titled “Marginal Fields’ Awards, Regulators’ Independence, and Environmental Injustice: Paradox of Beneficial Ownership and the Host Communities”, also raised concerns over the unchecked environmental damage caused by oil companies. Chairman, HEDA Resource Centre, Olanrewaju Suraju, condemned the awarding of contracts to unregistered companies, questioning the credibility of Nigeria’s oil sector regulations. “Out of approximately 38 companies, 18 are not even registered, and many have failed to file their annual returns. This is not about the supply of goods and services; we are talking about Nigeria’s main economic sector,” he said. He stressed that the failure to enforce due diligence had led to massive revenue losses for the country and called for collaboration between regulatory agencies such as the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), and the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI). Beyond financial misconduct, Suraju warned that environmental pollution in the Niger Delta remains a pressing concern. He urged civil society, the diplomatic community, and international organisations to intervene, particularly as oil companies attempt to divest from Nigeria without fulfilling their environmental responsibilities. The Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) Executive Secretary of NEITI, Dr. Ogbonnaya Orji, Dr. Ogbonnaya Orji, commended HEDA’s efforts in promoting transparency and accountability, reaffirming NEITI’s commitment to ensuring responsible resource management. “Beneficial ownership transparency is not just about knowing who owns what. It is about protecting our nation’s resources from corruption, illicit financial flows, and mismanagement. Host communities must be protected, compensated, and empowered.” Book Reviewer and Lecturer, University of Lagos, Prof. Dayo Ayoade, criticised the licensing process, describing it as compromised by political influence and corruption. “The 2020/2021 marginal fields bidding round exhibited procedural abuse and corrupt practices, leading to significant financial losses. Some of the winning companies were owned or backed by politically exposed persons,” he said. Ayoade added that 11 out of the 35 surveyed companies were inactive under the CAC, while several lacked the tax clearance certificates required for eligibility under the Public Procurement Act 2007. He further warned that oil companies seeking to exit Nigeria must first be held accountable for their environmental damage. “Before these companies are allowed to exit, they must remediate the damage done, pay compensation, and fulfill their decommissioning responsibilities.” You can download the report here

March 14, 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

Food security and agriculture HEDA News

IWD 2025: HEDA Reaffirms Commitment to Smallholder Women Farmers

As the world marks International Women’s Day 2025, the Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has commended women farmers for their tireless efforts in ensuring food security. The organization reaffirms its commitment to advocating for policies and practices that promote the livelihood, health, and well-being of small-scale women farmers. According to Sulaimon Arigbabu, Executive Secretary of HEDA, “Women farmers face numerous challenges, including indoor air pollution from traditional cooking fuels like charcoal and firewood, which pose significant health risks. To address this, we will intensify our advocacy for cleaner cooking technologies to promote good health and well-being among women smallholder farmers.” In addition to promoting cleaner cooking technologies, HEDA will prioritize empowering women farmers with critical climate and agrometeorological information. This will enable them to make informed decisions and minimize losses, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable food system. “We will also collaborate with stakeholders to strengthen market linkages, creating better economic opportunities for women in agriculture. HEDA remains committed to amplifying the voices of women farmers, championing their rights, and pushing for policies that empower them to thrive,” added Arigbabu. By focusing on the specific needs and challenges of women smallholder farmers, HEDA aims to contribute to a more equitable and sustainable food system transformation.

March 14, 2025 By Nurudeen Salako 0

HEDA News

HEDA Drags National Assembly to Court over Constitutional Breach

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has filed a suit at the Federal High Court, Lagos Judicial Division, challenging the National Assembly’s alleged breach of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). The suit, FHC/L/CS/286/25 filed by Mrs. Fumilayo Falana, Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), on behalf of HEDA Resource Centre, seeks the court’s interpretation of Sections 88(1) and (2) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. HEDA Resource Centre is praying the court to declare that the National Assembly is not competent to direct or cause to be directed investigations into any matter without a resolution published in its journal or the Official Gazette of the Government of the Federation. Additionally, the plaintiff is seeking a declaration that the powers of the National Assembly to conduct investigations are exercisable only for the purpose of enabling them to make laws, correct defects in existing laws, expose corruption, inefficiency, or waste in the execution or administration of laws. The civil society organisation is also seeking an order of perpetual injunction restraining the National Assembly from summoning or inviting private persons and representatives of private corporate bodies to appear before them or any of their committees without following the appropriate procedure and purpose under the law. According to HEDA Resource Centre, the National Assembly has been summoning private persons and representatives of private corporate bodies to appear before its committees without due process, which is a breach of the Constitution. The plaintiff argues that the National Assembly’s investigative powers are not at large and are subject to the provisions of the Constitution. This legal action underscores HEDA Resource Centre’s commitment to promoting transparency, accountability, and good governance in Nigeria.

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

Sowore Advocates for Reforms to Combat Human Rights Abuses in Nigeria

At the latest session of the HEDA Resource Centre’s monthly advocacy series (MAS) X-Space, Omoyele Sowore, the publisher of Sahara Reporters, delivered a stark evaluation of the current state of human rights in Nigeria. Speaking on the theme “2024 Review of Human Rights Abuse in Nigeria,” Sowore expressed deep concerns about the alarming regression of human rights in the country, emphasizing that the situation is now worse than during the military rule. Sowore criticized the Nigerian Police Force for prioritizing the suppression of legitimate human rights activism over combating crime. He highlighted daily violations of freedom of speech and pointed out the widespread harassment of citizens both online and offline by law enforcement. He cited numerous instances of disregard for court orders and lamented the plight of the 48,000 individuals awaiting trial, most of whom are poor. “Nigeria is in a state of absolute impunity,” he stated, adding, “A state where those responsible for law and order feel exempt from the rule of law themselves.” Sowore painted a vivid picture of a legal system that selectively targets the poor while allowing the powerful to evade justice. He likened Nigerian law to a cobweb that entraps only the weak, leaving the powerful untouched. The Sahara Reporter’s publisher condemned the government’s efforts to stifle freedom of speech, tracing this issue back to the Jonathan administration’s introduction of the Cyber Crime Act. “Initially aimed at combating internet fraud, the act has been misused to suppress dissent. Despite the repeal of Section 24, law enforcement continues to enforce it.” Sowore also noted the government’s failed attempts to pass social media laws and their continued use of outdated laws to target activists. Sowore emphasized the economic impact of these human rights violations, particularly how the internet has become a crucial economic hub for many Nigerians. He argued that the suppression of free speech not only affects physical freedoms but also destroys economic livelihoods and stifles creativity and democratic participation. Expressing concern over the diminishing role of civil society organizations, Sowore questioned their commitment to defending human rights and demanding good governance. He criticized the complacency and collaboration of some civil society groups with the authorities, undermining their effectiveness. Sowore called on Nigerian citizens to challenge the government both online and in person. He stressed that the government itself is often the primary source of fake news and that its duty is to tell the truth about its actions. In his concluding remarks, Sowore urged for renewed efforts towards genuine law enforcement and respect for human rights in Nigeria, emphasizing the importance of free speech in fostering democracy and creativity in any society. The session concluded with a call to action for civil society organizations to step up their efforts in defending human rights and for citizens to remain vigilant and active in the fight for justice.

HEDA NewsJanuary 27, 2025 By Nurudeen Salako

HEDA News

HEDA Condemns Arrest of Muhuyi Magaji and intimidation of Sowore, Calls Out IGP for Distracting Anti-Corruption Efforts

HEDA Resource Centre has strongly condemned the recent arrest and detention of Muhuyi Magaji, Chairman of the Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission, and invitation of Sowore Omoyele by the Nigerian police under the supervision of Mr. Kayode Egbetokun. These actions, purportedly ordered by the Inspector General of Police (IGP), are blatant abuse of power and an attempt to intimidate Magaji, celebrated Kano State Anti-Corruption Czar from fighting corruption involving high-profile figures connected to the ruling part, and Sowore from exposing police excesses on our roads. The arrest of Magaji, reportedly linked to the seizure of property allegedly tied to Abdullahi Ganduje, the National Chairman of the All-Progressives Congress (APC), raises serious concerns about the commitment of law enforcement agencies to upholding justice and combating corruption. These properties were under interim forfeiture by a competent court of law and in the custody of Kano State Government, while Sowore has recorded and exposed police officers extorting drivers under the guise of check points. In a statement signed by HEDA’s Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, the civil society organization described the police’s actions as an outrageous misuse of authority aimed at facilitating access to potentially looted assets while suppressing legitimate anti-corruption efforts. Suraju noted that this development threatens the credibility of Nigeria’s justice system and undermines the nation’s anti-corruption agenda. “These are unacceptable attempts by the Inspector General of Police to shield influential individuals from accountability while discouraging those fighting corruption. Muhuyi Magaji’s arrest reeks of intimidation and injustice, which cannot be tolerated in a democratic society committed to transparency and accountability,” Suraju stated. “HEDA is calling on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to urgently intervene and call the IGP and other law enforcement agencies to order. The President must ensure that law enforcement operates within the ambits of the law and does not become a tool for silencing those working to uncover corruption,” he added. Additionally, HEDA demands the immediate reversal of attempt to prosecute Muhuyi Magaji, and reversal of invitation to Sowore, an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding Magaji’s arrest, and a halt to all attempts to derail ongoing legal processes concerning the seized property linked to the APC National Chairman. “Nigeria’s fight against corruption must not be compromised by political interests or institutional overreach. HEDA remains steadfast in its commitment to promoting accountability, transparency, and justice, and urges all stakeholders to prioritize the public interest above all else.” He concluded.

January 27, 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

HEDA Calls for Transparency in the Outcomes of Senate Hearing on Subsidy Funds and Budget Performance

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) urges the Nigeria Senate Committee on Appropriation, chaired by Senator Solomon Olamilekan, to prioritize transparency and accountability in the recent Senate hearing involving the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun. In a statement signed by HEDA’s Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, the organization expressed serious concerns over key financial issues raised by the Senate committee, such as savings and expenditures from the removal of the fuel subsidy and debt servicing, and urged the Senate to ensure comprehensive investigations, and make the findings publicly accessible. According to Suraju, the Nigerian public have the right to know how their resources are being managed, particularly during economic challenges. He further emphasized the need for the Minister to provide detailed accounts of the savings and expenditures from subsidy removal to the Parliament, clearly outline debt servicing costs for 2024, and provide projections for 2025. The civil society organization also expressed disappointment in the apparent lack of readiness displayed by some public officials during the public hearing, and their sudden demand for closed door session with the parliamentary committee, stating that it undermines public trust in governance. “Closed-door sessions must not become a means of avoiding public accountability. Transparency in these matters is critical for fostering good governance and restoring citizens’ confidence in government institutions,” the statement added. HEDA further called on the Federal Government to enhance its public communication efforts by providing regular updates on the management of national resources. It further demands the monthly publication of FAAC allocations of the Federation across the three tiers of government. The organization reaffirmed its commitment to promoting transparency, accountability, and inclusive governance.

January 13, 2025 By Nurudeen Salako