EFCC Seeks Stronger Stakeholder Collaboration to Fight Corruption in Nasarawa, Plateau
The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has called for stronger collaboration among traditional institutions, the judiciary, security agencies and other stakeholders in Nasarawa and Plateau states to combat economic and financial crimes.
Olukoyede made the call through the Acting Zonal Director of the Abuja Zonal Directorate of the EFCC, Assistant Commander of the EFCC (ACE I) Michael Wetkas, during a series of engagements with key institutions in the two states between October 2 and 6, 2026.
The engagements were aimed at strengthening existing relationships between the EFCC and its institutional partners while securing greater cooperation in the fight against corruption and other financial crimes.
In Nasarawa State, the EFCC delegation visited the Emir of Lafia, His Royal Highness Justice Sidi Dauda Bage (retd.); the Chief Judge of the state, Justice Aisha Mohammed Usman; and the Commissioner of Police, Shetima Jauro Mohammed.
At the palace of the Emir of Lafia, Olukoyede described the visit as both official and in keeping with traditional customs, saying it was an opportunity to seek the monarch’s “father’s blessing” in the Commission’s anti-corruption efforts.
He expressed concern over the increasing involvement of young Nigerians in cybercrime, popularly known as “Yahoo Yahoo”, and called for collective efforts by traditional rulers, families, communities and law enforcement agencies to promote legitimate means of livelihood and positive social values.
The Emir commended the EFCC for its contributions to the fight against internet fraud and other financial crimes, assuring the Commission of his support.
During his engagement with the Chief Judge, Olukoyede highlighted the growing threat of investment fraud, noting that even judges and other highly placed professionals could become victims of fraudulent investment schemes.
Justice Usman assured the EFCC of the judiciary’s continued cooperation, particularly in the timely consideration of emergency applications required to support the Commission’s investigations and operations.
She also commended the EFCC for its professionalism and commitment to its mandate.
At a separate meeting with the Nasarawa State Commissioner of Police, Shetima Jauro Mohammed, the EFCC Chairman stressed the importance of inter-agency cooperation, noting that the EFCC and the Nigeria Police Force have complementary responsibilities in protecting citizens and combating crime.
The Commissioner assured the EFCC of the Command’s continued support and cooperation whenever required.
In Plateau State, Olukoyede emphasised the importance of closer collaboration between the EFCC and the Nigerian Army, particularly in operations requiring security support, intelligence sharing and personnel protection.
During the visit to the Headquarters of the Nigerian Army 3 Division at Maxwell Khobe Cantonment, Jos, the EFCC delegation, led by Wetkas, met with the General Officer Commanding (GOC), Major General Maxwell W. Dangana.
Olukoyede also raised concerns over illegal mining in Plateau State, describing it as not only an environmental and regulatory challenge but also a potential avenue for economic and financial crimes and a threat to national security.
He called for greater cooperation in identifying, disrupting and investigating criminal activities linked to illegal mining and other illicit economic activities.
The EFCC Chairman further warned that cybercrime, fraudulent investment schemes and other digital crimes could undermine public confidence, damage Nigeria’s international reputation and negatively affect the economy.
Responding, Major General Dangana assured the EFCC of the Division’s readiness to provide necessary assistance and strengthen collaboration between both institutions.
The GOC also requested the EFCC to organise a sensitisation programme for officers and soldiers of the Division on investment scams and related financial crimes.
He said the programme would help personnel identify fraudulent investment schemes, understand emerging tactics used by fraudsters and protect themselves from becoming victims.
