N17bn Recovered So Far Via Whistle Blower Policy – Magu

Magu made this known while speaking at the 62nd Award Night of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), at the Ladi Kwali Hall, Sheraton Hotels, Abuja.

In a paper titled Before Corruption Kills Nigeria”, the Acting EFCC boss said the “recent whistle-blower policy, has led to the recovery of N521,815,000, $53,272,747, £122,890, and €547,730 by the EFCC.”

Magu further called on the media to support the commission’s ongoing fight against corruption, as according to him, was the only way the menace can be curbed.

“The EFCC is committed to pursuing its statutory mandate and to rescuing the Nigerian state and its people from being killed by corruption,” he said.

“We call on the Media and well-meaning Nigerians to join us in this crusade. With the government and people of Nigeria behind the EFCC, we shall surely be victorious.”

Mr. Magu also said the EFCC recorded 62 convictions in the first quarter of the year.

In his remarks, the National President of the NUJ, Abdulwaheed Odusile, pledged the union’s support for the EFCC and commended the anti-graft agency for its efforts in combating corruption.

He urged the agency to continue carrying out its operation without fear or favour.

The NUJ president also condemned the rejection of Mr. Magu as the substantive chairman of the EFCC by the Senate.

“While we commend the EFCC for its efforts in fighting economic crimes and corruption, we urge it to be diligent and painstaking in its assignment, and continue to operate without fear or favour. The media will continue to support their efforts in this regard,” Mr. Odusile said.

“We condemn the undue politicization of the confirmation of the appointment of Ibrahim Magu as chairman of the EFCC by the National Assembly.

“We call on the executive and the legislature to work together in the interest of the Nigeria people. The cat and mouse game in their relationship is adversely affecting the state of the nation and the welfare of the people.”