By Aaior K. Comfort
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has recovered N13 billion in diverted public funds during September, according to Dr. Musa Aliyu (SAN), the commission’s chairman. He made this announcement at the launch of the ICPC Strategic Action Plan 2024-2028 in Abuja, highlighting it as a significant achievement in the fight against corruption.
Dr. Aliyu stated that this recovery reflects the commission’s ongoing commitment to ensuring accountability in Nigeria. He noted, “Over the past years, the ICPC has made significant progress in discharging its mandate. For example, we recovered over N13 billion in September 2024 alone. This is just one of the many ways we have worked tirelessly to fulfill our mandate.”
The chairman also discussed the ICPC’s plans for ICT reforms aimed at digitizing operations to enhance investigations and case management. This technological transformation will help the commission stay ahead of corruption in the digital age.
In addition to technological advancements, Dr. Aliyu revealed that the ICPC is developing a specialized curriculum to enhance the skills of its personnel. He emphasized the importance of empowering state governments by mobilizing state attorneys-general to combat corruption at the local level effectively.
The chairman recounted a successful conference held with state attorneys-general in September, attended by over 30 chief law officers, underscoring the commission’s commitment to broadening its anti-corruption campaign.
One of the key initiatives is the launch of the EthicsPod digital community, designed to promote transparency and accountability across public and private sectors.
Dr. Aliyu reiterated that the ICPC’s Strategic Action Plan aligns with national policies such as the Nigeria Agenda 2050 and the National Anti-Corruption Strategy 2022-2026. He called for collective efforts to institutionalize integrity and mobilize citizens in the anti-corruption fight, stressing that “prevention is better than cure.”
The chairman concluded by highlighting the need for synergy and collaboration among stakeholders to effectively tackle corruption in Nigeria.