By Luminous Jannamike

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has recovered N13 billion in diverted public funds over the past 30 days, marking a significant milestone in its anti-corruption efforts.

This recovery is part of ICPC’s intensified measures to combat corruption, as detailed in its 2024-2028 Strategic Action Plan unveiled Wednesday in Abuja.

The plan aims to enhance ICPC’s operations, increase transparency, and deepen collaboration with stakeholders.

In his address, ICPC Chairman, Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu, highlighted the commission’s achievements, including ICT reforms to digitalize operations and the decentralization of anti-corruption efforts through state governments.

He stated, “The fight against corruption cannot be won by any single institution alone. Over the past year, the ICPC has made significant progress; for example, we recovered over N13 billion in diverted public funds in September 2024 alone.

“Let us move forward with renewed determination, knowing that together, we can build a Nigeria where corruption has no place.”

Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, described corruption as a ‘cancer’ and assured the Federal Government’s unwavering support for ICPC’s initiatives.

He emphasized the importance of inter-agency collaboration to ensure justice.

Fagbemi remarked, “Corruption is a cancer that eats away at the very fabric of our society. The launch of this Strategic Action Plan is both timely and necessary. It represents a clear roadmap for the Commission to strengthen its operations, enhance transparency, and deepen collaboration with stakeholders.

“We will continue to work closely with the ICPC and all other relevant agencies to ensure that justice is not only done but is seen to be done.”

President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, stressed the need for effective planning and implementation.

She noted that corruption goes beyond financial crimes, encompassing accountability and integrity.

According to her, “Corruption isn’t just about money; it’s failing to do what you ought to. Planning and implementation are vital. Collaboration, cooperation, and a strong will are also crucial.

“Reporting misconduct and respecting processes are crucial in combating corruption. Nobody can bring our nation down; we will continue to thrive.”

EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, commended ICPC’s strategic plan, emphasizing the importance of commitment and proficiency in execution.

He stated, “Having a strategy is like having a refined tool at your disposal. However, what is crucial is the implementation—requiring ability, commitment, proficiency, and the necessary discourse to execute it.

“I am looking forward to a highly committed approach to its implementation, ensuring it flows from the top down to every member. Together, we will succeed in Nigeria.”

Key features of ICPC’s 5-year plan include enhancing enforcement capacity through specialized training, launching EthicsPod—a digital community promoting transparency and accountability, strengthening institutional integrity and partnerships, and conducting system studies and corruption risk assessments.

The plan aligns with national policies such as Nigeria Agenda 2050 and the National Anti-Corruption Strategy 2022-2026.

Vanguard News