President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called for an urgent need to address challenges hindering Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts, particularly the reliance on frivolous appeals and technicalities in court judgments. Speaking at the 6th Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC)/National Judicial Institute (NJI) Capacity Building Workshop, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, he emphasized that the judiciary plays a crucial role in expediting the prosecution of corruption cases.
President Tinubu described corruption as a “cancer” that deprives the nation of its resources and urged all Nigerians to unite in the fight against it. He acknowledged the progress made in prosecuting corruption cases but stressed the importance of focusing on substantive issues rather than legal technicalities.
He also highlighted the government’s initiatives, such as the Student Loan Fund and Consumer Credit Scheme, designed to provide financial support to vulnerable Nigerians and reduce the temptation to engage in corrupt practices. The President reassured continued federal support for the EFCC’s mandate and emphasized the need for collaboration among all stakeholders to combat financial crimes effectively.
Chief Justice of Nigeria, Hon. Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, and Senate President Godswill Akpabio also reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the fight against corruption through enhanced collaboration and legislative reviews.