EFCC anti-corruption progress praised by Senator Nwaebonyi, who says continued reforms could lead to full eradication of public sector corruption

EFCC anti-corruption progress has earned fresh commendation from lawmakers, as Senator Onyekachi Nwaebonyi voiced optimism that Nigeria could witness the complete eradication of public sector graft if the current momentum is sustained.

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Nwaebonyi, who serves as Vice Chairman of the South East Constitution Review Committee, made the remarks in an interview with ARISE NEWS on Wednesday.

He applauded the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for its recent transformation under the leadership of Chairman Ola Olukoyede, saying the agency had evolved from a “media trial” body into one producing tangible convictions.

“You remember that before now, EFCC was doing more of a media trial without achieving much results,” Nwaebonyi said. “But you can see within these two years plus, EFCC has secured a lot of convictions, showing that they are working. And I believe that if they continue in this way, then very soon corruption will be completely eradicated in our public system.”

He stressed the importance of transparency and regular public briefings, especially on high-profile investigations that yield no prosecutable evidence.

Doing so, he argued, would help change the public perception that all politicians are corrupt.

“Most of these high-profile cases that have no prima facie case against such individuals should be made public, so that Nigerians will not say all politicians are thieves,” he added. “We still have good leaders who are out to set things right.”

Senator Nwaebonyi also acknowledged the EFCC’s relative independence, urging the agency to uphold its professionalism in separating fact from allegation.

His comments come just days after the Presidency commended the EFCC for its institutional growth and impact.

On October 16, 2025, Hadiza Bala Usman, Special Adviser to the President on Policy and Coordination, praised the agency during a visit to its headquarters.

“You should all be proud of yourselves, seeing your trajectory,” Usman said. “EFCC is one of the most transformed agencies in Nigeria today.”

She presented the Commission’s Performance Charter to Olukoyede, describing the agency as a model institution in anti-corruption work since its establishment in 2000.

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The remarks from both the Senate and Presidency reflect growing confidence in the EFCC’s anti-corruption progress, even as the public continues to watch its handling of high-profile cases and its ability to maintain independence amid political pressure.