The Chairman Benue State Independent Electoral Commission (BSIEC) Dr. John Chen has sought the help of the Makurdi Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC in tracking fraudulent campaign financing and vote buying.
The plea was made on Thursday, May 16, 2024, when the BSIEC boss paid a courtesy visit to the Makurdi Zonal Command of the EFCC.
He said “EFCC is a critical stakeholder when it comes to election management. The role the commission played during the 2023 General election is commendable. We are here to collaborate and seek for your assistance as the Local Government election draws closer
We are also here to share ideas and build a stronger synergy to enable us to function effectively. We seek your assistance in the area of training for our staff in the area of prudent utilisation of public funds”.
Responding, the A.g Zonal Director Anselem Ozioko assured BSIEC’s boss of continuous support in ensuring that fraudulent campaign financing and vote buying are reduced to the minimum.
In the same way, Ozioko has reaffirmed that the long-established relationship between the EFCC and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps NSCDC would remain strong for more robust synergy.
He gave the assurance when he paid a familiarization visit to the NSCDC state Command office in Makurdi, Benue State.
” We are here today to majorly familiarize ourselves with our sister agency and to continue with the existing cordial relationship, most especially in the area of intelligence on illegal mining within the zone”
Responding, the Commandant Benue State Command of the NSCDC Yakubu Ibrahim expressed delight at the level of cooperation between the two agencies. He specifically sought help for the training of his officers in the area of investigation by the EFCC.
” We are ready to partner with you and give you maximum support in the area of manpower and intelligence,” he said.
