The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has unveiled an Inter-Faith Manual designed to help religious leaders promote anti-corruption messages among their congregations.
EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede launched the manual on Wednesday in Abuja during a meeting of the Nigeria Inter-Religious Council, NIREC, themed “Shared Sacred Flourishing in Nigeria.”
The manual was unveiled by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume.
Olukoyede said corruption and financial crimes have no religious or ethnic identity, stressing that the effects of corruption are felt by Nigerians regardless of their faith.
He said money stolen from hospitals, schools and pension funds directly affects the lives and welfare of ordinary citizens.
The EFCC chairman said religious institutions have an important role to play in preventing corruption because while law enforcement agencies investigate and prosecute financial crimes, religious communities can help shape values and encourage honesty and accountability.
He urged religious leaders to challenge the growing social acceptance of unexplained wealth and remind their followers that honest work and integrity should be valued.
Olukoyede also called on faith communities not to provide moral protection for people accused of corruption or treat investigations involving prominent members as attacks on their religious or ethnic groups.
He said the commission’s approach is increasingly focused on prevention, arguing that an effective anti-corruption system should reduce the opportunities and incentives for corruption, rather than focus only on arrests and prosecutions.
The manual, according to Olukoyede, was developed by Christian and Muslim religious leaders and covers anti-corruption issues that can be incorporated into sermons and other religious teachings.
Speaking at the event, SGF George Akume urged religious and traditional leaders to promote tolerance, peace and respect for places of worship.
He also called on community leaders to intervene early in disputes and prevent political or religious differences from escalating into violence.
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