ICPC Urges Attorneys-General to Strengthen Accountability and Transparency
The Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu, SAN, has called for collaboration between the Attorneys-General of Nigeria’s North-West zone and the ICPC to improve accountability and transparency in public service. This appeal was made during a conference held on Monday in Kano, focused on strengthening ICPC’s capacity to prevent corruption.
Dr. Aliyu reminded attendees of the Supreme Court’s ruling in AG Ondo State v. AG Federation & 35 Ors (2002), which highlighted the shared responsibility of both state and federal governments in fighting corruption. He urged the Attorneys-General to join forces with ICPC to create accountable systems that serve the public effectively.
The ICPC Chairman emphasized the importance of local knowledge and support from the Attorneys-General in enhancing the commission’s efforts to investigate and prosecute corruption across all sectors. He stressed that a united front against corruption is critical to the nation’s prosperity, as no country can thrive with widespread corruption.
Dr. Aliyu also referenced the 2023 report “Corruption in Nigeria: Patterns and Trends”, which highlighted the prevalence of bribery in the North-West region, particularly within public utilities, law enforcement, and administrative services. He encouraged stakeholders to resist corruption, noting a positive trend where 70% of Nigerians approached for bribes in 2023 refused to comply at least once.
Justice Dije Aboki, Chief Judge of Kano State, supported the initiative, emphasizing that the fight against corruption is both a legal and moral responsibility. She praised the establishment of a community of Attorneys-General to promote collaboration and shared strategies. Justice Aboki assured that the Kano Judiciary remains committed to supporting anti-corruption efforts, upholding the rule of law, and ensuring justice prevails.
Dr. Uche Immanuel, representing RoLAC, pointed out that the North-West region is currently leading efforts to institutionalize transparency and accountability. He stressed the importance of an inclusive approach to effectively tackle corruption.
The conference, titled “Establishing a Community of Practice for Attorneys General”, was attended by Attorneys-General from Zamfara, Kebbi, Sokoto, Jigawa, Kano, Kaduna, and Katsina states, as well as chairmen of state anti-corruption commissions from Kano, Jigawa, Katsina, and Kaduna states.
