HEDA Calls on Anti-Graft Bodies to Prosecute High-Profile Corruption Cases Valued at Over $1.6 Trillion
ABUJA/Nigeria: The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA), an influential anti-corruption agency, has vehemently urged the relevant anti-graft bodies to take swift action in prosecuting high-profile corruption cases with a staggering cumulative worth of more than 1.6 trillion dollars.
Barrister David Ogungbesan, the Legal Officer of HEDA, made this fervent appeal during anevent held at the offices of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).
Addressing the media, Ogungbesan highlighted that HEDA’s visit to the EFCC and ICPC offices served as a reminder of the statutory responsibilities of these anti-corruption agencies. This visit was part of an annual project undertaken by the HEDA Resources Centre, aimed at bringing national concerns and development issues to the forefront.
Ogungbesan passionately stressed that the astronomical amount embezzled by a select few individuals, if properly utilized, could have propelled the country from a developing nation to a developed one, instilling pride among its citizens. He emphasized the urgency of proactive and diligent investigation and prosecution of corruption cases, particularly those identified and documented in HEDA’s publications.
In the current economic climate, with escalating prices of fuel, gas, food, and essential commodities, coupled with rampant insecurity, the citizens’ cost of living has been severely impacted. Ogungbesan urged the EFCC and ICPC to act promptly in resolving these corruption cases, asserting that retrieving such vast sums of money for the nation could alleviate the prevailing economic hardships and foster prosperity across Nigeria.
The pinnacle of the protest was marked by HEDA’s presentation of a comprehensive compendium containing unresolved high-profile corruption cases to the officials of the EFCC and the Resident Anti-Corruption Commissioner of ICPC, Mr. Kabir Elelu.
In response, Elelu lauded the efforts of HEDA’s team and assured them that he would convey their message to the Chairman, Prof Bolaji Owasanoye (SAN). He further commended HEDA for its unwavering stand against corruption, emphasizing their role as partners in the ongoing progress towards a corruption-free society.
