Kuni Tyessi in Abuja
The Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education, CHRICED has commended the Supreme Court for its landmark ruling that rejected the lawsuit brought before it by 16 states governors led by Kogi State.
The lawsuit had challenged the legality and operational authority of key anti-corruption agencies, namely: the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, ICPC and the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit, NFIU.
The Executive Director of CHRICED, Ibrahim Zukirullahi, in a briefing yesterday titled – “Affirmation of the legitimacy of Anti-Corruption Agencies – A Positive Step Towards Restoring the Integrity of the Judiciary” – said the court did not play to the gallery, but has listened to the voice of reason and the public outcry in dismissing the frivolous lawsuit which he said lacks merit.
He explained that by addressing the root causes of corruption, the government can unlock significant financial resources that would otherwise be lost to corrupt practices, thereby a more sustainable environment.
In calling the government to fight against corruption, the executive director remarked that a determined approach to tackling corruption is a far more effective strategy for enhancing revenue generation rather than the imposition of taxes, fees and burdensome costs of PMS on the general populace.
The centre also called on the National Assembly to enhance the legal frameworks that government anti-corruption agencies have and this should involve constitutional integration of agencies, bolstering their operational independence and provision of technical and financial resources to fulfill their responsibilities effectively.
He said: “The Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education, CHRICED commends the Supreme Court of Nigeria for its landmark ruling that rejected the lawsuit brought before it by 16 states.
“By addressing the root causes of corruption, the government can unlock significant financial resources that would otherwise be lost to corrupt practices, thereby y a more sustainable environment.
“We urge the National Assembly to enhance the legal frameworks that government anti-corruption agencies. This should involve constitutional integration of agencies, bolstering their operational independence and providing with the technical and financial resources to fulfill their responsibilities effectively.
“Concurrently, these agencies must adhere to their mandates, operate with professionalism and transparency, and maintain accountability in their actions.
“A determined approach to tackling corruption is a far more effective strategy for enhancing revenue generation rather than the imposition of taxes, fees and burdensome costs of PMS on the general populace.
“By addressing the root causes of corruption, the government can unlock significant financial resources that would otherwise be lost to corrupt practices, thereby y a more sustainable environment.”
The resource centre also noted that strengthening institutions, promoting accountability and encouraging transparency are vital measures for restoring the integrity of the nation and facilitating sustainable development.
Last modified: November 22, 2024
