A rights group, the Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED), has asked President Bola Tinubu to order the immediate suspension and prosecution of Customs Officers identified by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for involvement in bribery and corruption.
Comrade Ibrahim M. Zikirullahi, Executive Director of CHRICED, while addressing journalists on Thursday, wondered why the President had remained silent after revelations made by the EFCC and some investigative journalists about the massive corruption in the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS).
In its recommendations, CHRICED also called for the immediate arrest and prosecution of all Customs Officers implicated in a recent undercover investigation by Fisayo Soyombo.
“We recommend the immediate suspension and prosecution of the corrupt Customs officers identified in the EFCC investigation, along with the recovery of the entire bribe amounts they received.
“We call for a prompt investigation, arrest, and prosecution of all officers implicated in the recent undercover investigation by Fisayo Soyombo.
“We call for a comprehensive reform of the Nigeria Customs Act to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the Nigeria Customs Board and to curtail the overbearing powers of the Minister of Finance.
“We suggest transparent and timely review of the annual auditor general’s report and recommendations concerning the misuse of powers by the Nigeria Customs, including the immediate initiation of measures to recover the unlawful waivers granted by Customs to companies and personnel of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs,” Zikirullahi said.
ALSO READ: JAPA: Nigerians are underpaid, Daniel Rehga reacts to Remi Tinubu’s speech
Furthermore, he recommended immediate implementation of other audit actions, including sanctions against the Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs regarding non-remittance of levies, taxes, and other infractions of established public sector financial regulations.
CHRICED also urged President Tinubu to prioritize, without delay, the establishment of a comprehensive national strategy to combat corruption.
According to CHRICED, this strategy should aim to enhance the autonomy of anti-corruption bodies, granting them the necessary independence and authority to effectively carry out their duties without any external interference or influence.
“This can be achieved by empowering them to investigate and prosecute corruption cases without fear of reprisal or political pressure.
“Additionally, it is crucial to strengthen anti-corruption institutions to ensure their effectiveness and efficiency. This can be accomplished by providing them with adequate financial and human resources to fulfill their mandate. This includes recruiting and training competent and dedicated staff, as well as equipping them with the necessary tools and technology to carry out their work.
“Furthermore, it is imperative to rigorously enforce adherence to established financial regulations within the public sector. Any violations should be swiftly and decisively dealt with, imposing appropriate penalties on those found guilty. This will serve as a deterrent to potential wrongdoers and send a strong message that corruption will not be tolerated,” he noted.
The CHRICED Executive Director further stated that emphasis should be placed on preventive measures, such as promoting transparency and accountability in the public sector.
“Encouraging the adoption of best practices in financial management and procurement processes is essential. By implementing measures like regular audits, strict financial controls, and whistleblower protection mechanisms, the government can create an environment that is less susceptible to corruption,” he said.
He, however, said that CHRICED strongly condemns the deep-rooted corruption, deliberate sabotage, and misconduct at high levels within the Nigeria Customs Service.
“We urgently call for thorough investigations and a complete overhaul to restore the organization’s integrity. It is disgraceful and concerning that, despite the recent exposure of a massive bribery scandal involving senior officers, the Tinubu Administration has not taken significant action to hold those responsible accountable. We call on the President to take decisive measures to provide the necessary leadership in the fight against corruption.
“The absence of accountability and transparency in our government has created a culture of impunity where those in power believe they can act without facing consequences. This erosion of public trust in our institutions has hindered our nation’s progress. Corruption affects every Nigerian, from the lack of essential services to the erosion of our democratic values.
“To address this crisis, we must hold our leaders responsible for their actions and demand transparency in all government transactions. We must support the efforts of anti-corruption agencies and ensure they have the necessary resources and independence to effectively investigate and prosecute corrupt individuals.
“Furthermore, we must work towards strengthening our institutions and promoting a culture of integrity and ethical behavior in our society. Only through collective action and a commitment to fighting corruption can we build a brighter future for Nigeria.
“We cannot allow corruption to continue to undermine our hard-earned democracy and impede our development. It is time for all Nigerians to unite against corruption and strive for a more transparent and accountable government,” he added.