By Ologeh Joseph Chibu
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) forged alliance to combat economic crimes in Enugu State
In a bid to address illegal mining, oil bunkering, and tax evasion in Enugu State, the EFCC and NSCDC have initiated a collaborative strategy. This partnership was formalized during a meeting on Thursday between Commandant Otoibhi Ehi Cyprian of the NSCDC and Assistant Commander ACE I Aliyu Nuhu Naibi of the EFCC at the latter’s office, Irohinoodua was informed.
Naibi emphasized the necessity of robust synergy between the EFCC and NSCDC to effectively tackle economic crimes in the state, which he likened to acts of economic sabotage. He highlighted illegal mining, oil bunkering, and tax evasion as critical issues requiring joint efforts for resolution.
Naibi Emphasized, “Illegal mining, Illegal oil bunkering and tax evasion, these are very crucial types of economic sabotage that we at the EFCC are seriously battling. With you, we can strategize and develop intelligence together and deal with the menace for the betterment of the people of this state”
Furthermore, Naibi pointed out the correlation between illegal mining and money laundering, stressing the importance of tax compliance among mining companies.
He said, “You can refer such cases to us like tax evasion. If a company is involved in mining, whether it is legal or illegal, we want to know whether it is paying tax. That is an area of concern to us. We also want to know if the company is being used to launder money because some of them hide under mining and you will see a lot of money passing through the company but the truth of the matter is that they are laundering money for other people”
He urged the NSCDC to enhance intelligence sharing with the EFCC to address such issues promptly, “You may go to do your own work and in the process of doing your work, you see what concerns us as well, you tell us and we will act immediately”.
In response, Cyprian expressed his desire for collaboration and effective cooperation to achieve success in Enugu State. He emphasized the need for closer relationships between the two agencies to fulfill their mandates and sustain existing partnerships.
“The essence of my visit is to seek for synergy, collaboration and effective cooperation. I’m here to partner and solicit for closer relationships in order for us to secure our mandates and also sustain our existing relationship”, he stated.
