A rally spearheaded by the Kogi Conscience Liberation Movement (KCLM) unfolded on Monday at the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) headquarters, with the group fervently advocating for the recovery of embezzled funds and the prosecution of corrupt officials.
According to Vanguard, the rally, led by Comrade Jacob Okpanachi, Secretary of KCLM, and Desmond Obaro, witnessed participants brandishing placards bearing slogans such as ‘Kill Corruption before it kills Nigeria’ and ‘Corruption is cancer to democracy’.
Okpanachi, addressing the gathering, emphasized the imperative for the EFCC to intensify its anti-corruption endeavors, particularly in Kogi State, where the group alleged the misappropriation of billions of naira by former government officials.
“We are here to clarify that the people of Kogi State are in full support of the EFCC’s commendable work. We urge them to continue their efforts to recover our stolen wealth and bring those responsible to justice,” asserted Okpanachi.
Highlighting the magnitude of the alleged embezzlement, Okpanachi stated, “N80 billion is not a trivial amount, and N800 million (paid in advance to American International Abuja for children of an ex-Kogi governor) could cover the school fees of five to six children or the WASSCE fees for 29,630 students in Kogi State."
Desmond Obaro echoed similar sentiments, stressing the importance of the EFCC's persistence in tackling corruption. “Our presence here today signifies solidarity with the EFCC, as we urge them to recover our common wealth stolen by the former governor and his associates,” remarked Obaro.
The group also implored the National Judicial Council (NJC) to swiftly address compromised judges allegedly undermining the fight against corruption.
Amid chants and placard displays, the rally remained peaceful, with members conveying their message to passing motorists and pedestrians.
In response, EFCC officials received the group's letter of demands, pledging to review their grievances and take appropriate action.