The Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, ICPC, Musa Adamu, has raised alarm over corruption at the Local Government level in Nigeria, saying its tentacles often find fertile ground.
The ICPC emphasised this in Abuja on Wednesday at the Commission’s engagement with the National Anti-Corruption Coalition, NACC, the event focused on “Accountability and Corruption Prevention in Local Government Administration.”
Adamu stressed that local government administration is the closest tier of government to the people and undeniably the bedrock of democratic governance.
The ICPC boss added that it is at the local government level that the daily realities of citizens are shaped, essential services are meant to be delivered, and where development initiatives should directly impact lives.
However, he said the local governments level is now a breeding ground where the insidious tentacles of corruption often find fertile ground.
“The diversion of funds meant for local projects, ghost worker syndicates, inflated contracts, and the misappropriation of internally generated revenues are but a few examples of the corrupt practices that undermine the very essence of local governance,” he said.
“When corruption thrives at the local level, it directly impedes development, erodes public trust, and ultimately stunts the progress of our nation. It is a betrayal of the trust reposed in public officials by the very people they are meant to serve.”
Adamu added that the Commission fully recognizes the critical role that a robust and accountable local government system plays in national development.
“Our mandate, as enshrined in the ICPC Act, extends beyond the prosecution of corruption offenders. It encompasses a proactive approach to corruption prevention, public education, and fostering a culture of integrity across all tiers of government and segments of society,” he added.
He explained that the engagement was a strategic convergence of minds, dedicated to forging practical solutions to a persistent challenge.
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He called on members of the National Anti-Corruption Coalition to see themselves as the eyes and ears of the people, and a vital partner in this ongoing fight against corruption.
“We must explore innovative ways to empower citizens to demand accountability from their local government officials.
“Citizen participation in budget monitoring, project oversight, and reporting of corrupt practices is paramount. We need to sensitize our communities on their rights and responsibilities, fostering a culture where corruption is not tolerated but actively resisted.
“We must also acknowledge the challenges faced by local government officials, including capacity gaps and, sometimes, undue external pressures. While we will not condone corruption, we must also work towards building a system that is resilient and equips officials with the necessary tools and training to resist temptation and uphold ethical conduct.”
