PCRC, Online NUJ Seek Collaboration with EFCC in Enugu
The Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) and the Corporate Online Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) have called for stronger collaboration with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to carry out extensive sensitization campaigns on the dangers of corruption, economic, and financial crimes in Enugu State.
In a statement posted on its official X handle @officialEFCC, the Commission revealed that the request was made during a recent courtesy visit by Martins Chiedozie Ugwu, Enugu State Coordinator of the PCRC, and his team to the Acting Zonal Director of the EFCC, Enugu Zonal Directorate, ACE I Aisha Abubakar.
Speaking during the visit, Ugwu emphasized that the primary purpose of the meeting was to seek collaboration with the Commission in educating the people of Enugu State on the negative effects of corruption in society.
“We see the need to organize a conference that will bring together youth leaders from various communities, organizations, and other stakeholders. We understand that your work is immense, and we appreciate that a part of it involves proactive measures to curb economic and financial crimes beyond reactive enforcement. Since our goals align, we believe collaboration is vital. We invite you to participate in this conference and use the platform to sensitize the people and encourage them to join hands with the EFCC in the fight against corruption in the state,” he said.
In her response, Abubakar affirmed that the Commission takes its preventive mandate seriously, noting that the EFCC conducts regular sensitization campaigns to inform the public about the nature and consequences of economic and financial crimes.
“The scourge of corruption has made it essential for the Commission to consistently remind the public of the importance of supporting the EFCC’s efforts to eliminate the menace,” she said.
Similarly, the Chairman of the Corporate Online Chapel of the NUJ, Enugu State Council, Clinton Umeh, also called for enhanced partnership with the Commission, particularly in sensitizing youths and dissuading them from engaging in cybercrime.
“As journalists, we are concerned about the increasing rate of crime. Sometimes, if we report everything we witness, the general public may find it hard to believe,except for those in the security sector who understand the realities. We want to be part of your awareness campaigns. Many youths involved in crime are unaware of the consequences of their actions. Through proper orientation and sensitization, we can save those who are not yet deeply involved. Our chapel engages with everyday people on social media, making us an effective channel for such campaigns. We want to collaborate with your Directorate,inform us about your programmes, and we are ready to partner with you on public sensitization,” he said.
In her closing remarks, Abubakar thanked the delegation for their visit and acknowledged the critical role of the media in society. She described the NUJ as “key stakeholders in the fight against corruption” and reaffirmed the EFCC’s commitment to strengthening its collaboration with the Union.
“We are always ready and willing to work with you. Collaboration has been one of our Core Values since the EFCC’s inception, as enshrined in our Establishment Act. Public sensitization and awareness are fundamental to our mission to eradicate economic and financial crimes,” she said.
She also urged the NUJ to share intelligence with the Commission, noting that the EFCC has confidential reporting channels, including the EFCC Eagle Eye mobile application, which allows citizens to report crimes anonymously.
“All you need to do is download the app and report a crime without revealing your identity,” she added.
