EFCC URGES FAITH LEADERS TO STRENGTHEN ANTI-CORRUPTION EFFORTS

The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Ola Olukoyede, has called on Christian and Muslim leaders to use their platforms to discourage corruption and promote honesty among their followers.

Olukoyede made the appeal in Abuja during the 2026 second council meeting of the Nigeria Inter-Religious Council, where the EFCC launched an Anti-Corruption Interfaith Manual for religious leaders.

He said religious institutions had an important role in preventing corruption by shaping the values and behaviour of their members.

According to him, while the EFCC investigates and prosecutes financial crimes, religious leaders can help prevent such offences by teaching their followers about integrity and responsible conduct.

Olukoyede urged pastors and imams to challenge the practice of celebrating unexplained wealth and encourage their members to question the sources of wealth.

He said corruption and financial crimes affect Nigerians regardless of religion or ethnicity, adding that the consequences of stolen public resources are felt across communities.

The EFCC chairman said the newly launched manual was developed with Christian and Muslim leaders and contains religious teachings on corruption.

The Executive Secretary of NIREC, Prof Cornelius Omonokhua, said the manual would assist religious leaders in communicating anti-corruption teachings while promoting peaceful coexistence.