ICPC recovers over N13bn in diversion of public funds in September
…Launches 2024-2028 strategic action Plan to combat corruption
By Matthew Denis
The Chairman of Independent Corrupt Practices and other related matters (ICPC), Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu has disclosed that the commission has made significant progress in discharging its mandate by recovering over N13 billion in diverted public funds in September, 2024 alone.
The Chairman made the disclosure during the launch of the ICPC’s 2024-2028 Strategic Action plan and Ethicspod held in Abuja on Wednesday.
He said, “We are truly honoured to have you with us today for the launch of the 2024-2028 Strategic Action Plan (SAP). This occasion represents a crucial milestone in our continuous battle against corruption and underscores the immense responsibility entrusted to the ICPC by the nation.
“Over the past year, the ICPC has made significant progress in discharging its mandate; for example, we recovered over N13 billion in diverted public funds in September 2024 alone. This is just one of the many ways we have worked tirelessly to fulfil our mandate.
“We are also embarking on ICT reforms that will digitalise our operations and enable more efficient investigations, case management, and internal processes. This transformation will position the Commission as a leader in leveraging technology to combat corruption, keeping us one step ahead of criminal activities in the digital age.
“We are similarly developing a specialised curriculum aimed at enhancing the enforcement capacity of our personnel. This initiative equips our officers with the skills and expertise needed to address the complexities of corruption cases with the highest standards of professionalism and efficiency.
“We are decentralising the anti-corruption effort by empowering state governments through the mobilisation of State Attorneys General. This approach ensures that state governments are equipped with the tools, knowledge, and resources necessary to effectively combat corruption at the local level.”
The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Hon. Lateef Fagbemi said, “it’s a significant milestone and a combined effort to fight against corruption which undermines trust and weakens the system.”
According to him, the launch of this strategy action plan is timely and necessary at this period to address emerging changes.
He said, “I’m aware and it’s have no doubt that the chairman of ICPC will execute the plans effectively.”
The Minister assured the commission of support to ensure that the plans are being executed.
He said, “You’re so lucky that the most necessary stakeholders like judges, lawmakers are here to support you.”
Vice Chairman Senate Committee on Anti-Corruption, Sen. Kaka Shehu Lawal who represented Chairman Sen. Emmanuel Gbenga said the ICPC has remained steadfast to eliminate corruption in the country.
The Lawmaker emphasised that the impact of this effort cannot be swept under the carpet as they operate professionally in transparency and accountability.
“I urge the ICPC to remain resolute in tackling corruption, and engage others stakeholders to collaborate as it’s a task for collective responsibility.
Chairman, House Committee Anti-Corruption, Kayode Mushood Akiolu said, “We wish to state that the National Assembly is in a joint task force to ensure corruption is reduced to barest minimum.”
