By Maryam Abdullahi, Kaduna The Acting Zonal Director of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Kaduna Zonal Direc...
By Maryam Abdullahi, Kaduna
The Acting Zonal Director of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Kaduna Zonal Directorate, Bawa Usman Kaltungo, on Friday paid a courtesy visit to the Executive Officials of the Kaduna State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), accompanied by his management team.
Kaltungo, who was recently posted to the Zonal Directorate, expressed gratitude to NUJ members for their longstanding support and cooperation with the Commission. He appealed for the continuation of this partnership for the overall good of society.
He raised concerns over the growing rates of visa racketeering, cybercrimes, and illegal mining activities in Kaduna State, urging journalists to intensify efforts in enlightening the public on the dangers of engaging in such crimes. He stressed that public awareness remains a critical tool in curbing these emerging threats.
In response, the Chairman of NUJ, Kaduna State Council, Abdulgafar Alabelewe, assured the EFCC Director of the Union’s unwavering support in educating the public to steer clear of criminal activities at all times.
Kaltungo also called on journalists to always seek clarification and balance their stories when reporting on the Commission to avoid misrepresenting its image and operations. He emphasized that the visit was part of the Commission’s routine engagement whenever a new Zonal Director is appointed, aimed at strengthening ties with strategic partners such as the NUJ.
He highlighted the alarming rise in cybercrimes among youths, warning that if left unchecked, it could jeopardize the nation’s future leadership and development. He revealed that the Commission is devising new strategies to tackle cybercrimes proactively.
The EFCC boss also decried the increasing cases of visa racketeering, particularly during pilgrimage seasons, where individuals are duped by fraudulent travel agents. He noted with concern that even married women have been involved, stressing that the law applies equally to all citizens regardless of marital status.
Kaltungo further warned against illegal mining activities, describing it as a practice fueling insecurity, including terrorism and banditry. He reminded the public that mining is exclusively regulated by the federal government and requires proper licensing from the Federal Ministry of Mines and Steel Development. He warned that anyone caught engaging in illegal mining would face prosecution, as the Commission has already been actively arresting and charging offenders.
He concluded by reaffirming the EFCC’s appreciation for the NUJ’s support and called for continued collaboration to sensitize the public on the Commission’s activities and the dangers of economic and financial crimes.
In his welcome address, Alabelewe reiterated the NUJ’s commitment to supporting the EFCC, emphasizing that media practitioners have a social responsibility to the public and are duty-bound to hold public officials accountable. He praised the existing good working relationship with the Kaduna Directorate of the EFCC and assured that the NUJ’s doors remain open for collaboration at any time.
No comments