HURIWA urges transparency in management of recovered assets

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) is demanding increased transparency and public scrutiny in the handling of assets seized as part of the nation's anti-corruption initiatives. The group believes Nigerians have a right to know how forfeited properties and funds are utilized. HURIWA acknowledged the recent successes of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), particularly its court-backed forfeiture orders for cash, vehicles, and jewelry. The association views these judgments as positive steps in Nigeria's fight against corruption. However, HURIWA stresses that asset recovery must be accompanied by robust accountability measures. To enhance the impact of the anti-corruption campaign, HURIWA suggests that the public should receive regular updates on the status, management, and application of recovered assets. The group specifically called on the EFCC to implement a clear reporting system detailing the estimated value, location, disposal process, and any public projects funded by these recovered assets. Such transparency, HURIWA argues, would foster public trust and demonstrate that these assets are indeed being used for national development. Furthermore, HURIWA urged the Federal Government to ensure that forfeited assets are managed in alignment with the public interest. The association also advocated for broader participation from various stakeholders, including civil society organizations, professional bodies, and the media, in overseeing the valuation, preservation, and disposal processes of these assets. HURIWA highlighted the extensive negative consequences of corruption on Nigeria's socio-economic progress, impacting critical sectors like healthcare, education, and infrastructure. Consequently, the group called for continuous reforms to strengthen the anti-corruption framework through improved enforcement, enhanced legislation, and greater institutional accountability. HURIWA encouraged Nigerians to support anti-corruption efforts grounded in the rule of law, fairness, transparency, and due process, emphasizing that the campaign's ultimate success should be measured by tangible improvements in public services and citizen welfare, not just the volume of assets recovered.

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Nigerians deserve to know how forfeited properties and funds are utilised.