ICPC Intercepts N5bn Diverted By MDAs In 1 Year
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has intercepted ₦5.882 billion that was allegedly diverted from various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) within the last year.
The ICPC Chairman, Dr. Musa Aliyu, disclosed this on Tuesday during an event in Abuja marking his one year in office. The funds were recovered through the commission’s Systems Study and Review (SSR) of 323 MDAs.
Efforts to Combat Corruption
Dr. Aliyu stated that as part of the ICPC’s institutional accountability efforts, the commission assessed 323 MDAs using its Ethics and Integrity Compliance Scorecard (EICS). It also established 80 Anti-Corruption and Transparency Units (ACTUs) in MDAs to reinforce anti-corruption measures.
He explained, “While conducting these assessments, the commission stopped the diversion of public funds to the tune of ₦5.882 billion.”
Case Investigations and Prosecutions
Over the past year, the ICPC processed 851 petitions, with 342 assigned for investigation, 95 fully investigated, and 72 cases filed in court. The commission also secured 16 convictions.
Dr. Aliyu emphasized the need for faster prosecution of cases, saying, “We are streamlining our processes to ensure faster and more effective prosecution of cases, including resuscitating 10-15-year-old cases in courts.”
The ICPC has also advanced its efforts in tackling sexual harassment and corruption in educational institutions and public offices, leading to ongoing prosecutions and increased public support.
Calls for Enhanced Funding
Former ICPC chairman and current Chairman of the National Salaries, Income and Wages Commission (NSIWC), Ekpo Nta, advocated for anti-graft agencies to retain a percentage of recovered funds to enhance their operational capacity. He also called for improved funding to minimize corruption risks within the agencies themselves.
Avoiding Petition Duplication
Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, warned against duplicating petitions, advising that individuals should not submit the same petition to both ICPC and EFCC.
The ICPC’s achievements underline its commitment to combating corruption and enhancing transparency in Nigeria’s public sector.
