KEY POINTS
- In September, the ICPC recovered more than ₦13 billion ($8.13 million) in misappropriated public monies.
- The ICPC is undergoing a digital revolution to increase its effectiveness in combating corruption.
- Decentralized anti-corruption initiatives are strengthening state administrations.
In September 2024, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offenses Commission (ICPC) made a major advancement in the fight against corruption when it recovered over ₦13 billion ($8.13 million) in embezzled public funds.
ICPC intensifies its efforts in digitization
With nearly ₦13 billion ($8.13 million) recovered in September alone, the ICPC’s efforts to recover diverted monies have produced excellent results, according to chairman Adamu Aliyu.
Speaking at the commission’s 2024–2028 strategic action plan introduction in Abuja, Aliyu highlighted the commission’s dedication to carrying out its mandate and the strides it has made in the fight against corruption.
In addition to concentrating on money recovery, Aliyu pointed out that the ICPC is upgrading its operations by embracing digital transformation. The organization intends to carry out information and communication technology (ICT) reforms that will enhance the effectiveness of case management, internal investigations, and other procedures.
“We are embarking on ICT reforms that will digitalize our operations and enable more efficient investigations and case management. This transformation will position the ICPC as a leader in leveraging technology to combat corruption,” Aliyu stated.
He further revealed that a unique curriculum is being established to increase the enforcement capacities of ICPC staff, seeking to equip them with the essential skills to handle complex corruption cases with professionalism and efficiency.
Dispersing anti-corruption initiatives
Aliyu further mentioned that the ICPC is attempting to decentralize anti-corruption activities by involving state administrations in order to ensure a wider reach. According to Punch, the panel is seeking to give state attorneys general additional authority so that local corruption prevention efforts may be carried out more successfully.
He emphasized the significance of combating corruption at all levels of government, saying, “We are decentralizing the anti-corruption effort by empowering state governments through the mobilization of State Attorneys General.”
The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, spoke at the event as well. He reiterated that President Bola Tinubu’s administration considers the fight against corruption to be one of the primary impediments to Nigeria’s growth and that it is therefore a high priority.
According to Fagbemi, “The fight against corruption remains a cornerstone of this administration’s agenda, as we recognize that corruption is a cancer that eats away at the very fabric of our society.”
The Court of Appeal’s President, Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, promised the court will back the ICPC’s new strategic action plan.
In her remarks, she emphasized the significance of cooperation and implementation in the fight against corruption, saying that; “it is not only about stealing money but also about neglecting to do what is right. Our wonderful nation will assist the ICPC in carrying out the action plan.”
