The Department of State Services (DSS) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing intelligence-sharing to combat terrorism financing in Enugu State.
This resolution was reached during a courtesy visit by the Enugu State Director of DSS, Humphrey Ohikhuare, to the Zonal Director of the EFCC’s Enugu Zonal Directorate, Commander CE Mohammed Shuaib Bello.
During the meeting, Ohikhuare commended the EFCC’s relentless efforts in tackling corruption, economic fraud, and financial crimes, stating that the Commission’s work has significantly contributed to safeguarding Nigeria’s economy.
“As the Director here, I recognize your critical role in combating financial and economic crimes. Your efforts in investigating and prosecuting fraudulent individuals have helped us re-strategize and ensure that the country’s resources benefit the people,” he said.
READ ALSO: We won’t spare corrupt officers, says EFCC Chairman
He emphasised the need for stronger intelligence-sharing between the DSS and EFCC, particularly in tracing the sources of funds used to finance terrorist activities.
“My visit here is to strengthen collaboration in intelligence gathering. Terrorists cannot operate without funding, and much of this money moves through financial institutions.
“If we can cut off their sources of financing, we will significantly curb criminal activities, particularly terrorism, in Enugu State,” Ohikhuare added.
In response, Bello welcomed the collaboration, highlighting that the DSS, as a Board Member of the EFCC, has always been a crucial stakeholder in the Commission’s operations.
He reiterated that the Enugu Zonal Directorate remains committed to supporting the DSS.
“The EFCC’s core mandate is to investigate and prosecute economic and financial crimes. As you rightly pointed out, terrorism cannot exist without financing. That is why this partnership is vital.
“We are ready to share intelligence and provide maximum support because, without collaboration, neither the EFCC nor the DSS can fully achieve its mandate,” Bello said.
In a related development, the Enugu State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Elijah Etim Willie called for closer cooperation between the NSCDC and the EFCC, particularly in tackling economic sabotage.
During a visit to Bello’s office, Willie stressed the importance of synergy between the two agencies, noting that joint efforts were essential for success in the state.
“We cannot effectively do our job without collaboration. Our anti-fraud unit handles cases that we often refer to the EFCC, while cases related to vandalism should be forwarded to us.
READ ALSO: Nigeria needs better universities, not more – JAMB Registrar
“There is so much we can achieve together as partners. I am here to seek your support and assure you that whenever I reach out, it is to strengthen our cooperation,” he said.
Responding, Bello reaffirmed the EFCC’s long-standing relationship with the NSCDC, describing it as a key player in the fight against corruption.
“The EFCC has worked closely with the NSCDC since its inception. In 2005, we prosecuted numerous pipeline vandalism cases, with 90 per cent of them transferred from the NSCDC to us.
“Many were successfully prosecuted at the Federal High Court in Kaduna. Our collaboration has always been strong, and I assure you of our continued support to ensure we both fulfil our mandates,” he said.
