By Gabriel Ewepu and Favour Ulebor

ABUJA- The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, and a non-profit organisation, Open Africa Foundation, OAF, yesterday, urged Nigerians to actively join the fight against corruption at all levels.

The call was made at a conference tagged ‘Review of Critical Economic and Governance Challenges’, held in Abuja, where the EFCC Chairman, Olanipekun Olukayode, emphasized that public engagement and sensitisation are key to fighting corruption in Nigeria, and that Nigerians should support the war against corrupt people.

Olukayode represented by the Head, Creative Communication on Financial Crime, EFCC, Chris Oluka, pointed out that empowering people remains crucial and effective in the war against corruption, therefore, creating a world of greater social justice is paramount, and added that citizens’ participation and ownership are vital components in the fight against corruption in Nigeria.

He said: “However, poverty has made many citizens cynical, and they don’t see the impact of anti-corruption efforts. Nigeria needs systemic control, like other countries, where accountability and transparency are paramount. Public engagement and sensitisation are key to fighting corruption.”

He also commended the Open Africa Foundation, organizers of the conference for the initiative to promote citizens’ engagement and awareness on corruption and its effects on the national economy and international image.

Meanwhile, the Chairman, OAF, Tunji Aworinde, emphasized that it is imperative for Nigerians to personalize the anti-graft war, because corruption puts their lives in danger including generations unborn, hence collective effort is needed, and not to be left to anti-graft agencies alone.

Aworinde said it is the right of Nigerians to know how their resources are used by public office holders at all levels, and they should own the process of accountability, transparency and prudence in managing public resources beyond any affiliations.

“We need men and women who will stand up, ask questions, and demand answers”, he said.

He also appealed to parents to inculcate the principles of transparency, honesty and accountability in their children, and promote a cultural shift to accountability.

“Being the best is not just about money. It is about integrity, conscience, and asking questions,” he added.

Meanwhile, the 16th President/Chairman of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria, CITN, Samuel Agbeluyi, addressed the connection between public spending and tax compliance.

Agbeluyi pointed out that a lack of trust in government officials is a major reason many Nigerians avoid paying taxes. He stressed that transparency in how public funds are managed is crucial for fostering public confidence and increasing voluntary tax compliance.

He also highlighted the need for dialogue within Nigeria’s democratic framework, particularly regarding a proposed bill in the National Assembly aimed at reforming the tax system.

He said he believes that clearer tax obligations and reduced confusion around taxation could encourage more citizens to participate in the tax system.