The Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu, SAN, has called on Attorneys-General in Nigeria’s North-West zone to strengthen collaboration with the commission to enhance accountability and transparency systems that benefit the public.
Speaking on Monday at a conference in Kano themed “Establishing a Community of Practice for Attorneys General,” Dr. Aliyu emphasized the shared responsibility of federal and state governments in combating corruption, referencing the Supreme Court judgment in AG Ondo State v. AG Federation & 35 Ors (2002).
“This presents an opportunity to enhance our collaboration, ensuring that the systems we create are accountable and transparent,” he stated.
Dr. Aliyu highlighted the ICPC’s mandate to investigate and prosecute corruption across all sectors of public service, stressing that support from state Attorneys-General is pivotal in making these efforts more effective.
The event brought together key stakeholders, including Attorneys-General from the seven North-West states—Kano, Kaduna, Katsina, Zamfara, Sokoto, Jigawa, and Kebbi—and state anti-corruption commission chairpersons from Kano, Jigawa, Katsina, and Kaduna.
Citing the 2023 “Corruption in Nigeria: Patterns and Trends” report by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), Dr. Aliyu noted the significant prevalence of bribery in the North-West, particularly in public utilities, law enforcement, and administrative services.
Despite this, he observed a positive shift, as 70% of Nigerians approached for bribes in 2023 reportedly refused at least once, a development he attributed to increased public awareness and resistance to corrupt practices.
Justice Dije Aboki, Chief Judge of Kano State, commended the initiative to foster collaboration among Attorneys-General, describing corruption as a legal and moral issue that undermines governance and public trust.
“The Judiciary in Kano State remains committed to upholding the rule of law, ensuring justice serves as a shield for the innocent and a weapon against the corrupt,” she affirmed, urging lawmakers to prioritize passing the Whistleblower Protection Bill to bolster anti-corruption efforts.
Representing the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC) Programme, Mr. Uche Immanuel noted that the North-West region is leading efforts to institutionalize transparency and accountability.
He advocated for an inclusive approach, emphasizing that sustainable progress requires the active involvement of all stakeholders.
The conference, hosted by the ICPC, underscores the importance of a unified front against corruption and the need for innovative strategies to strengthen governance across Nigeria.
