Politics
THE Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has commended the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over its reported recovery of ₦1.23 trillion and $684.48 million.
HEDA Chairman, Mr Olanrewaju Suraju, gave the commendation in a statement, describing the recoveries between October 2023 and June 2026 as significant progress in Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts.
He said the recoveries, prosecution of offenders and measures to strengthen accountability within the EFCC demonstrated renewed commitment to combating corruption and financial crimes.
Suraju said the forfeiture orders covered more than 10,000 assets, including 1,177 properties, 251 plots of land, 370 vehicles and a 753-unit housing estate in Abuja.
He said the significance of the recoveries went beyond the volume of funds and assets, noting their potential to contribute to public welfare and restore citizens’ confidence in the fight against corruption.
“The reported allocation of additional ₦50 billion to the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) and another ₦50 billion to the Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation (CREDITCORP) demonstrates how recovered resources can be redirected towards programmes with direct benefits to citizens,” he said.
The HEDA chairman said the transfer of the recovered 753-unit Abuja housing estate to the Federal Ministry of Housing also presented an opportunity to convert recovered assets into social and economic value.
He said the development would demonstrate that proceeds of financial crimes could be recovered and put to productive use for the benefit of Nigerians.
HEDA also welcomed the EFCC’s reported dismissal of more than 40 personnel over corruption and financial malpractice.
It said the prosecution of more than five of the affected personnel was an important component of credible anti-corruption enforcement.
According to the organisation, an institution responsible for investigating and prosecuting corruption must subject its personnel to the same standards of accountability demanded of members of the public.
HEDA called for sustained collaboration among the EFCC, civil society organisations, the media, oversight institutions and citizens to strengthen the fight against corruption.
It commended the EFCC leadership and personnel for the progress recorded in financial crime enforcement.
The organisation urged the commission to sustain the momentum, deepen institutional reforms and ensure transparent management of recovered funds and assets.
It said the ultimate objective should be to ensure that recovered resources contribute to public accountability, social development and improved quality of life for Nigerians.
M.P
Tags: EFCC HEDA