The Department of State Services (DSS) has called for enhanced collaboration with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in the fight against terrorism financing in Enugu State.
The appeal was made during a recent courtesy visit by the Enugu State Director of DSS, Mr. Humphrey Ohikhuare, to the Zonal Director of EFCC, Commander CE Mohammed Shuaib Bello, at the EFCC’s Enugu Zonal Directorate.
During the visit, Ohikhuare acknowledged the EFCC’s vital role in combating financial crimes and corruption, emphasizing how its efforts have contributed to national economic stability. He commended the Commission for its commitment to investigating and prosecuting fraudulent activities, stating that such actions ensure that national resources are effectively utilized for citizens’ benefit.
“I recognize your critical role in combating financial and economic crimes in the country, as it has helped sustain our economy. Your dedication to investigating and prosecuting fraudsters has also enabled us to re-strategize and ensure that national resources are directed towards the people’s welfare,” Ohikhuare stated.
The DSS director stressed the need for intelligence-sharing between both agencies to curb terrorism financing in Enugu State. He noted that terrorists rely on financial networks to operate, with funds often moving through formal banking channels.
“I am here to seek collaboration in intelligence gathering. One of our key responsibilities in the state is to combat terrorism, and we know that terrorists cannot operate without funding. Some of these funds pass through banks. By sharing intelligence, we can track and cut off their sources of funding, which will go a long way in curbing criminal activities, particularly terrorism, in Enugu State,” he added.
In response, Bello reaffirmed the EFCC’s commitment to working closely with the DSS, describing the agency as a key stakeholder in the Commission’s operations. He noted that intelligence-sharing is crucial in achieving their respective mandates and assured the DSS of maximum support.
“Terrorism cannot thrive without financial backing, and your visit is timely. We welcome collaboration and will provide all necessary support. Intelligence-sharing is critical, as it enables both the EFCC and DSS to fulfill our mandates effectively. The DSS is one of our board members by law, and we have always worked together,” Bello stated.
In a related development, the Enugu State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Commandant Elijah Etim Willie, has also sought stronger collaboration with the EFCC in tackling economic sabotage.
During a visit to the EFCC Zonal Directorate, Willie emphasized the importance of synergy between the two agencies, particularly in handling cases related to fraud and vandalism.
“There is no better way to carry out our responsibilities than through collaboration. I am here to seek synergy. We have an anti-fraud unit, and some cases we receive are best handled by the EFCC. Likewise, if you have cases related to anti-vandalism, we are ready to handle them. We are here to serve, and as partners, we can achieve a lot together,” Willie stated.
While responding, Bello reaffirmed the EFCC’s longstanding collaboration with the NSCDC, recalling their joint efforts in prosecuting pipeline vandalism cases dating back to 2005.
“The EFCC has always worked closely with the NSCDC. I recall that in 2005, we prosecuted several cases of pipeline vandalization, and 90 percent of those cases were referred to us by the NSCDC. The collaboration has been effective over the years, and we will continue to support each other to achieve our mandates,” Bello assured.
