The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Ola Olukoyede, has called on Nigerian youths to take a central role in the fight against corruption, emphasizing the devastating impact of graft on their future.
Speaking during a town hall meeting held in Sokoto State to commemorate the 2024 International Anti-Corruption Day, Olukoyede, represented by the Zonal Director of the EFCC, Nnwanneka Nwokike, urged young people to unite in tackling corruption, which he described as a major barrier to youth empowerment and self-actualization.
“Corruption affects all age groups but deals a more severe blow to the prospects of young people. It limits opportunities for self-expression, tilting them in favour of the privileged through favouritism, nepotism, and other unfair practices,” Olukoyede said.
The EFCC chairman highlighted how corruption not only denies youths equal opportunities but also lures many into fraudulent activities.
He warned that the allure of “easy money” often traps young people in a cycle of criminality, which undermines their potential for innovation and collaboration.
“Youths need a united voice to challenge corruption at all levels of government. No other generation can do it for them. They must become watchdogs and active participants in eradicating corrupt practices,” he added.
Olukoyede outlined actionable steps for youths to combat corruption, including forming alliances to promote accountability, exposing unethical practices, and supporting anti-corruption agencies.
He assured whistleblowers of confidentiality and protection, noting that the Sokoto Zonal Office has established a complaints box where the public can submit petitions.
The Chairman of the Civil Society Organization in Sokoto State, Comrade Bello Shehu, praised the EFCC for its collaboration with civil society groups.
He acknowledged the positive impact of the EFCC’s Zonal Office in addressing corruption in the state and urged the commission to extend its efforts by organizing training sessions for CSOs, particularly on the recent autonomy granted to local governments.
Shehu reaffirmed the commitment of CSOs in the state to work with the EFCC in driving anti-corruption initiatives.
The town hall meeting witnessed active participation from youth groups, including the Integrity Club from Shehu Shagari College of Education, the Zero Tolerance Club from Usmanu Danfodiyo University, and National Youth Service Corps members.
