The recent critique of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) by human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong highlights several vital lessons for the commission and for Nigeria's institutional development in general. Effiong, once an ardent supporter of the EFCC, now stands critical due to what he perceives as systemic flaws within the organization, including corruption, partisanship, nepotism, and professionalism issues. His critiques, though harsh, provide invaluable insights into the challenges faced by the EFCC and broader lessons for Nigeria's institutional evolution.
Key Issues Raised by Effiong
Effiong's criticisms of the EFCC were both profound and multifaceted. Among the most salient issues he raised are:
Corruption: Effiong accused the EFCC of internal corruption, undermining the agency’s core mission of fighting corruption. This is a significant concern as the very agency tasked with rooting out corruption must itself remain free of such vices to maintain credibility.
Partisanship: He highlighted the perceived bias within the EFCC, particularly its tendency to shield certain political figures while aggressively pursuing others. This partisanship not only tarnishes the EFCC's reputation but also undermines its effectiveness in promoting justice and fairness.
Nepotism: According to Effiong, nepotism within the EFCC has compromised its professionalism and credibility. Favoritism, especially in personnel decisions, diminishes the integrity of the organization and discourages meritocracy, which is essential for any agency that aims to serve the public good.
Professionalism: Effiong questioned the EFCC's professionalism, citing incidents of property damage and harassment during operations. These actions, particularly when done without due process, contribute to an atmosphere of distrust and fear, which is harmful to both the public and the EFCC’s mission.
Effiong's critique, particularly amid the controversy surrounding the killing of an EFCC officer during a sting operation, raises significant questions about the EFCC’s operational integrity. While this issue is crucial, it is not the primary focus of this write-up from a psychological perspective. As a psychologist, the emphasis here is on the systemic challenges within the EFCC that Effiong highlighted—such as corruption, partisanship, nepotism, and professionalism issues—which have broader implications for the agency's ability to function effectively. Effiong's call for accountability and transparency, especially in terms of evidence and public communication, is important but must be considered in the context of the overarching need for institutional reform, training, and capacity building within the EFCC to ensure long-term improvements in its operations and credibility.
Lessons from the Critique
Effiong’s criticism should be seen not as an attack on the EFCC but as a call for introspection and reform. There are several lessons that the EFCC, and by extension, Nigeria's democratic and institutional framework, can draw from this critique.
Reform is Essential: The EFCC must continue to embrace reform, especially in light of the issues raised by Effiong. The efforts by EFCC Chairman Olanipekun Olukoyede to dismiss corrupt officers signal a positive step toward cleaning up the organization. However, more work remains to be done to ensure that the EFCC is seen as a neutral, professional body committed to fighting corruption without bias.
Training and Capacity Building: As a psychologist, I strongly believe that African institutions, including the EFCC, must prioritize training and capacity building. The mantra should be: TRAINING, TRAINING, TRAINING. This is a crucial step towards building strong, effective, and accountable institutions. The EFCC should prioritize regular in-house training, virtual workshops, and capacity-building initiatives to combat corruption, strengthen professionalism, and reduce the potential for nepotism and partisanship.
The old approach of sending officers overseas for training is outdated and inefficient. We now live in a world where digital training methods, such as virtual workshops and online learning, are not only cost-effective but also more in tune with today’s digital age. In-house training, virtual training, and email-based training are cost-effective and efficient ways to build capacity and promote professionalism within institutions. This approach can help reduce the need for overseas training, which can be expensive and ineffective. By investing in digital training and capacity building, African institutions can develop the necessary skills and expertise to function effectively within their own contexts.
This model of training—used by countries such as the United States and other developed nations—integrates not just cognitive and technical skills, but also mind-body training, which promotes mental resilience, emotional regulation, and physical well-being. These elements are essential for professionals working in high-stakes environments like law enforcement and anti-corruption agencies. The focus on mind-body training—combining psychological wellness with physical health—ensures professionals can manage stress, stay focused, and act ethically even under pressure. This holistic approach to training will enhance the resilience and capacity of EFCC officers, and similar institutions across Africa, to act with integrity and professionalism.
Transparency and Accountability: Effiong’s call for more transparency within the EFCC is an important reminder for all public institutions. Transparency and accountability are crucial for maintaining public trust. He suggests that the EFCC should prioritize open communication, especially in addressing sensitive matters, such as the death of an officer during an operation. Public scrutiny is a necessary part of fostering a culture of accountability, and the EFCC's openness can help build this trust over time.
Institutional Integrity: The broader lesson here is that institutions must continually strive to uphold integrity. For the EFCC to effectively carry out its role as Nigeria's anti-corruption agency, it is essential that it operates with the highest ethical standards. This includes ensuring that internal policies, personnel decisions, and operations are always guided by fairness, justice, and impartiality.
The Broader Implications for Nigeria
Effiong’s critique is not just about the EFCC; it is about strengthening Nigeria’s democratic and institutional framework. Strong, transparent institutions are vital to Nigeria’s growth, both economically and socially. Institutional strength is closely linked to the nation’s economic development. When corruption and inefficiency are minimized, there is greater potential for sustainable development and democratic growth.
In particular, efforts to address corruption within the EFCC can send a message to other Nigerian institutions that reform is necessary across the board. By pushing for reforms within the EFCC, Effiong is contributing to the broader goal of strengthening Nigeria’s democratic processes and institutional growth.
Moving Forward: A Call to Action
The EFCC, under Olanipekun Olukoyede, has already taken steps to address some of the criticisms raised by Effiong, such as dismissing corrupt officers and increasing vigilance against impersonators. However, further efforts are needed to ensure these reforms are sustained and deeply embedded within the organization. The EFCC should continue its reformative efforts, focusing on building a robust, fair, and accountable system for addressing corruption. As a psychologist, I firmly believe that the mantra for success in this regard is: TRAINING, TRAINING, TRAINING. Ongoing training and development are essential to ensure that EFCC officers have the necessary skills and mindset to carry out their duties with professionalism, integrity, and a commitment to long-term change.
It’s important to note that institutions in America or other countries are not inherently superior to African institutions, including those in Nigeria. All humans share the same potential for growth, development, and positive change. What makes the difference is training—providing the right tools, knowledge, and mindset to people within institutions. With the right investment in training and capacity building, African institutions can be just as effective as their counterparts elsewhere in the world.
Moreover, the Nigerian government and its institutions should recognize that real progress comes from within. It is essential to invest in capacity building, professional development, and ethical training. These measures will help reduce corruption and increase trust in the system, ultimately benefiting the entire nation.
Effiong’s critique of the EFCC, while harsh, offers a valuable perspective on the challenges faced by one of Nigeria’s most critical anti-corruption bodies. His call for transparency, accountability, and professionalism is crucial for strengthening the EFCC and promoting sustainable democratic growth. The lessons drawn from this critique should guide the EFCC’s future actions and serve as a model for other Nigerian institutions striving to build integrity, professionalism, and public trust.
As a psychologist, I emphasize the need for a psychologically informed approach to institutional reform. Training, self-reflection, and commitment to change are key components that will allow Nigeria’s institutions, including the EFCC, to function effectively and efficiently in their pursuit of justice and national development. African institutions, in particular, must prioritize comprehensive, integrated training that not only builds professional skills but also nurtures mental and physical well-being, leading to more resilient, ethical, and effective organizations.