EFCC, DSS, REDAN strengthen synergy to combat corruption

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The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Department of State Services (DSS) have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening collaboration in the fight against corruption, money laundering, and terrorism financing.

The EFCC, in a statement shared on its X page, disclosed that this commitment formed the crux of discussions during a meeting between the Director of its Ilorin Zonal Office, Harry Erin, and the Kwara State Director of the DSS, Michael Oganwu.

The meeting, held at the EFCC office in Ilorin, followed Oganwu’s familiarization visit to heads of security and law enforcement agencies.

Speaking during the visit, Oganwu emphasised the importance of inter-agency cooperation in combating crime, particularly financial crimes.

“The DSS and EFCC have a record of good working relationships, which I hope should be sustained,” he said.

He stressed that no agency can single-handedly tackle money laundering and terrorism financing, urging both agencies to foster stronger synergy.

In response, Erin highlighted the longstanding partnership between the EFCC and the DSS, attributing their success in fighting financial crimes to effective collaboration.

He expressed gratitude for the DSS’s support, particularly in intelligence gathering and tracking criminals involved in financial crimes.

In a related development, Erin also engaged with the Real Estate Developers Association of Nigeria (REDAN), Kwara State Chapter, during a courtesy visit to the EFCC’s Ilorin office.

Addressing the REDAN executives, led by Chairman Kamaldeen Abioye, Erin emphasised the need for diligence and professionalism in real estate transactions to ensure compliance with anti-money laundering regulations.

“The Commission is not out to cripple any business but to support legitimate enterprises through the enforcement of laws that bolster the economy,” Erin stated.

He advised real estate developers to adhere to the provisions of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, which mandates that transactions exceeding N5 million for individuals and N10 million for corporate organisations must go through financial institutions.

Erin also urged them to register with the Special Control Unit Against Money Laundering (SCUML), noting that the registration process is free and conducted online.

Erin further stressed the importance of maintaining accurate records of customer transactions, both in electronic and hard copy formats, to safeguard developers from potential criminal liabilities.

Meanwhile, Abioye praised the EFCC for its efforts in curbing financial crimes and requested the Commission’s assistance in tackling the issue of land grabbers, which he said was negatively affecting the real estate sector.

He assured the EFCC of REDAN’s commitment to fostering transparency and professionalism in the industry.