Jigawa’s PCACC Seeks Collaboration with EFCC to Strengthen Anti-Corruption Efforts

The Jigawa State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission (PCACC) has officially sought collaboration with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to enhance its investigative capabilities. The request was made on Thursday, February 6, 2025, during a courtesy visit by a delegation from PCACC, led by its Chairman, Salisu Abdu, to EFCC’s corporate headquarters in Abuja.

Abdu emphasized that the PCACC, which is relatively new, lacks the necessary expertise to conduct in-depth anti-corruption investigations. He noted that by working with the EFCC, his agency could learn critical investigative techniques and methodologies that would enable it to execute its mandate effectively. According to him, sharing investigative responsibilities with the EFCC would not only improve transparency in Jigawa State but also lighten the burden of the federal anti-graft agency.

Information Sharing and Training for Enhanced Efficiency

Beyond investigations, the PCACC Chairman highlighted information sharing as another key area of collaboration. He explained that although the EFCC retains nationwide jurisdiction over financial crimes, the PCACC could serve as a vital information hub within Jigawa State, offering localized intelligence that would make the EFCC’s work easier. “There are areas where the PCACC could be very fundamental in sharing information that may assist the EFCC in its investigative activities, especially in economic crimes affecting the state,” Abdu stated.

Additionally, Abdu sought EFCC’s assistance in capacity building through specialized training programs. Recognizing EFCC’s extensive experience in combating corruption over the past two decades, he expressed interest in sending PCACC personnel for professional development at EFCC’s academy. This, he said, would ensure that his team acquires the necessary skills to handle complex corruption cases effectively.

Strengthening Prosecution and Administrative Support

Abdu also addressed the need for support in prosecuting corruption-related cases, acknowledging the interconnected nature of corruption and economic crimes. He pointed out that PCACC lawyers and prosecutors would benefit from learning prosecution techniques through training facilitated by EFCC’s legal and investigative departments. By strengthening its prosecution arm, the PCACC aims to ensure that corruption cases in Jigawa State are handled with the same level of professionalism as those prosecuted by the EFCC at the national level.

In addition to legal training, Abdu sought administrative support from the EFCC, particularly in developing structural frameworks for the newly established anti-corruption agency in Jigawa. He expressed hope that EFCC’s guidance would help Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission build a sustainable system for tackling corruption effectively within the state.

EFCC Chairman Endorses Collaboration and Encourages PCACC’s Efforts

In response to PCACC’s request, EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede commended the initiative, stating that strengthening anti-corruption institutions at the state level would complement the EFCC’s work and lead to more effective governance. He stressed that the EFCC is always open to collaboration, as both agencies share a common mandate in fighting corruption.

Olukoyede further encouraged Abdu to remain committed despite the challenges that come with anti-corruption work. “You probably will be the most vilified person in your state because you are ready to do the right thing. But never mind, just let your conscience be clear towards men, towards God, and towards the mandate that you have been given,” he advised. He reassured the PCACC leadership of the EFCC’s full support in ensuring that the agency becomes a formidable force in the fight against corruption in Jigawa State.

By fostering collaboration between the federal and state-level anti-corruption bodies, the partnership between the EFCC and PCACC is expected to enhance transparency, accountability, and good governance in Jigawa State, setting a precedent for other states to follow.