NBA EFCC anti-corruption collaboration deepens as both bodies commit to stronger legal-enforcement synergy and focus on politically exposed persons

NBA EFCC anti-corruption collaboration took a significant step forward on Tuesday, 16th September 2025, as both institutions pledged to enhance cooperation in tackling corruption across Nigeria.

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The renewed commitment followed a courtesy visit by the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Ilorin Branch to the Zonal Office of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Ilorin, Kwara State.

Led by its chairman, Barrister Sulyman Kosemani, the NBA delegation met with EFCC Zonal Director Daniel Isei to discuss areas of mutual interest and concern.

Kosemani praised the current relationship between the EFCC and legal practitioners in the state but stressed the need for deeper collaboration.

He specifically urged the Commission to heighten its scrutiny of politically exposed persons (PEPs) and public office holders, especially in light of increased federal allocations to the state following the removal of fuel subsidy.

He also advocated for greater involvement of legal professionals in EFCC operations, suggesting that such cooperation would lead to more efficient and legally sound anti-corruption outcomes.

In his remarks, Isei welcomed the NBA’s overture, describing lawyers as “indispensable allies” in the Commission’s mandate.

“Lawyers and law enforcement agents cannot do without each other.

We can achieve more together through synergy,” he affirmed.

However, Isei cautioned against unwarranted interference in EFCC investigations.

He urged the legal community to provide credible intelligence, especially in high-profile cases, and to discourage clients from using legal technicalities to obstruct justice.

He reminded the lawyers of their ethical obligations as “ministers in the temple of justice”, encouraging them to support the EFCC’s work with professionalism and sound counsel.

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The NBA EFCC anti-corruption collaboration reflects a broader strategy to improve institutional accountability and ensure the rule of law prevails in Nigeria’s anti-graft efforts.