LAGOS/Nigeria: Speakers at the 20th-anniversary lecture commemorating the establishment of the Human and Environmental Agenda (HEDA) Resource Centre in Lagos has emphasized the critical need for intensified efforts in combating corruption and fostering a society grounded in the rule of law.
Addressing attendees at the event, the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Olanipekun Olukoyede, underscored the significance of HEDA’s longstanding commitment to anti-corruption advocacy. He lauded the organization’s pivotal role in forwarding numerous petitions to the EFCC, which have catalyzed investigations into corrupt practices.
“HEDA remains a pillar of anti-corruption advocacy and a consistent voice for public accountability and transparency,” remarked Olukoyede. He highlighted the alignment between the EFCC and HEDA in their shared determination to eradicate corruption, a scourge deeply entrenched in Nigeria’s societal fabric.
The theme of the lecture, “Navigating the Nexus of Anti-Corruption and Good Governance in Nigeria: Striking a Balance for Economic, Social, and Environmental Justice,” resonated with Olukoyede’s call to translate anti-corruption efforts into tangible socio-economic benefits for Nigerians.
Drawing attention to the intrinsic link between anti-corruption measures and good governance, Olukoyede emphasized the imperative of upholding the rule of law and fostering institutional integrity. He acknowledged the daunting nature of the anti-corruption mandate, citing the influx of petitions received by the EFCC as evidence of pervasive corruption within the system.
Reflecting on his tenure as EFCC chairman, Olukoyede disclosed the staggering volume of petitions received, illustrating the magnitude of corruption challenges confronting Nigeria. Despite the formidable obstacles, he affirmed the commission’s commitment to implementing robust checks and balances to preempt corrupt practices.
Justice Lateefat Okunnu, Chairperson of the event and a Lagos State High Court Judge, echoed Olukoyede’s sentiments, advocating for the establishment of resilient institutions grounded in the principles of the rule of law. She commended HEDA for its unwavering dedication to anti-corruption initiatives, emphasizing the pivotal role of civil society in fostering accountability and transparency.
In her remarks, Prof. Ayo Atsenuwa, Chairperson of HEDA’s Board of Trustees and Deputy Vice Chancellor of the University of Lagos, lauded the organization’s contributions to shaping Nigeria’s anti-corruption landscape. She credited HEDA with instrumental advocacy efforts that led to the establishment of key anti-corruption agencies.
Dr. Muiz Banire (SAN) emphasized the indispensable role of the rule of law in fostering national development, asserting that corruption undermines the fabric of society. Mr. Sulaimon Arigbabu, Executive Secretary of HEDA, outlined the organization’s future trajectory, emphasizing a renewed focus on capacity-building initiatives in anti-corruption and governance.
The event culminated in the public presentation of a publication titled “The 2023 General Elections: Trends in Politics and Elections in Nigeria.” Prof. Adele Jinadu remarked on the challenging electoral landscape, urging stakeholders to engage directly with citizens to foster meaningful democratic participation.
The commemoration attracted prominent figures from various sectors, underscoring the collective commitment to advancing the anti-corruption agenda and promoting good governance in Nigeria.
