In a compelling address at the Conference of Auditors-General of States and Local Government Areas, EFCC Executive Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, implored auditors to elevate their professionalism and expertise in forensic evaluation to bolster financial transparency.
At the event held in EFCC Academy, Karu, Abuja, on November 27, Olukoyede emphasised the pivotal role auditors play in fortifying accountability within sub-national governments, highlighting their responsibility in detecting corporate abuse and malpractices.
Represented by Acting Commandant Babashani Umar Sanda, he stressed the critical link between an uncompromised auditor and a secure financial system.
Under the theme “Enhancing Public Accountability Through Forensics and Fraud Investigation,” the conference delved into the realm of forensic accounting.
Professor Michael A. Ayeni, Chairman of the Professional Training and Standards Committee, underscored the need for a proactive approach, advocating the creation of forensic departments in state ministries and miniature sections in local governments to fortify defenses against financial intruders.
Auditor-General of the Federation, Shaakaa Kanyitor Chira, advocated a paradigm shift from traditional procurement processes to a more technologically advanced approach.
He emphasized the indispensability of forensic experts equipped with the necessary tools to navigate the complexities of modern fraud.
President of CIFFIN, Dr. Iliyasu Gashinbanki, called for a comprehensive review of the Public Procurement Act, urging a forensic analysis of the entire process.
He emphasised the necessity of digitising the public procurement management process to ensure transparency, accountability, and efficiency in the delivery of works, goods, and services by government entities.
The conference provided a platform for participants to collectively reevaluate the effectiveness of forensic audit and investigation in comparison to traditional methods.
