EFCC urges INEC to ensure credible election nationwide

Stanley Ihedigbo

Acting Zonal Director, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Uyo Zonal Directorate, Assistant Commander of the EFCC, ACE I Oshodi Johnson, has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to take the lead in tracking and curbing corrupt practices and negative influences during elections across Nigeria.

According to the Head, Media and Publicity, EFCC, Mr. Dele Oyewale, Oshodi made the call in Uyo on Monday, when he received a delegation from the INEC office in the state, led by the State Resident Electoral Commissioner, REC, Mr. Obo Effanga.

According to him, “the responsibility on your shoulder is huge, and as we all serve in our different departments under the Federal Government, we must do so diligently, while you must take the lead in ensuring a free and fair election across the country”.

In his remarks, Effanga explained that the visit was aimed at strengthening collaboration between the agencies to ensure credible and transparent elections. “Election is a national project; it does not rest solely on INEC. We are only facilitators in Nigeria’s democratic process, and we must ensure that all hands are on deck for success. Over the years, we have worked closely with several security agencies, including the EFCC, which plays a vital role as part of the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security.”

Oshodi further reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to supporting INEC and other relevant bodies in ensuring transparent and credible elections. “I want to assure you that we are in this together, and your visit shows that our efforts and partnership are being recognized. Elections are the lifeblood of democracy, a process that determines the nation’s future. If the wrong individuals are elected, we all suffer. Therefore, it is our collective duty to protect the integrity of the electoral process.”