The Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Dr. Adamu Aliyu SAN, has pointed to corruption as the primary cause of Nigeria’s current economic challenges.
This was revealed during a courtesy visit by members of the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID) to the ICPC Headquarters.
Represented by the Commission’s Secretary, Mr. Clifford Okwudiri Oparaodu, Dr. Aliyu highlighted how corruption has severely impeded the nation’s development, urging Nigerians to remain patient while contributing to ongoing reform efforts. He stressed the importance of public enlightenment in combating corruption, emphasizing the role of institutions like CJID in this endeavor.
Speaking on the mandate of the Commission, Dr. Aliyu underscored the significance of adhering to policies aimed at curbing corruption in the execution of constituency and executive projects. He encouraged CJID to utilize the Freedom of Information Act to obtain data from government agencies, suggesting legal action if necessary to ensure transparency.
During the visit, Mr. Dapo Olorunyomi, CEO of CJID, expressed the organization’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with ICPC. He highlighted the need for increased citizen engagement, stating that Anti-Corruption Agencies alone cannot combat corruption effectively.
Mr. Olorunyomi also mentioned challenges faced by CJID in accessing data from some Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), expressing hope for ICPC’s assistance in overcoming these obstacles.
In response, ICPC assured its support in facilitating access to necessary information and welcomed CJID’s offer to provide media engagement and global database resources to aid in investigation activities.
