The Nigerian Army and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have renewed their commitment to working together to combat corruption and other financial crimes within Edo State. The agreement underscores a shared understanding that strong collaboration between security and anti-graft agencies is essential for tackling organised crime in the region.
This renewed pledge was confirmed on Monday during a courtesy visit by the Commander of the Nigerian Army’s 4 Brigade, Brigadier General A. O. Balogun, to the EFCC’s Benin Zonal Directorate. General Balogun, who recently took up his command in Benin City, stressed that the EFCC requires the full support of all Nigerians if it is to effectively carry out its mandate as the country’s foremost anti-corruption agency.
He highlighted that cooperation from key stakeholders, particularly in tracking illicit funds, is crucial for effective disruption of criminal networks. “If we can detect the flow of funds, we can nip such crimes in the bud,” he noted, explaining that proactive monitoring is the most strategic way to stop financial criminality before it causes wider damage.
The strengthened alliance carries significant economic weight for Nigeria. Illegal oil bunkering, a crime historically targeted by joint operations involving the military and the EFCC, represents a massive financial haemorrhage for the nation. Crude oil theft and illegal refining activities result in the loss of billions of dollars annually, starving the country of crucial foreign exchange earnings and destabilising the primary source of national revenue. By combining military capabilities with the EFCC’s financial intelligence, the partnership aims to better protect these vital national assets and ensure public funds are not diverted.
General Balogun emphasised that the relationship between the military and the anti-graft agency is long-standing, covering joint operations and personnel training. He assured the Commission that the Army was ready to provide support whenever required, stressing the focus was on results rather than rivalry. “It is not about competition but about collaboration. It doesn’t matter who kills the snake as much as the snake is killed,” he stated.
In response, the Acting Zonal Director of the EFCC in Benin, Deputy Commander of the Commission, Sa’ad Hanafi Sa’ad, commended the visit, echoing the sentiment that synergy is vital. He described the Nigerian Army as a critical partner in the anti-corruption fight, affirming that no single agency can eliminate crimes and criminality alone.
“Our interest and your interest are the same, which is to have a better Nigeria, and so we are willing to collaborate with you,” Mr Sa’ad concluded, confirming the joint intent to build on existing operational relationships and ensure that the fight against financial crime yields maximum results for the country.
