The Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Dr. Musa Aliyu, SAN, emphasized the potential for enhanced transparency and accountability at the grassroots level following the recent Supreme Court ruling that granted financial autonomy to local governments. He made this statement during a workshop organized by the ICPC in collaboration with the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) and the MacArthur Foundation, themed “Power of the Pen in the Fight Against Corruption,” held at Reiz Continental Hotel in Abuja.
Dr. Aliyu stated, “We are advancing initiatives such as the local government integrity initiative and advocating literary activism to inspire behavioral change through literature, jingles, and thematic short videos.” He highlighted the ICPC’s longstanding commitment to combating corruption, reiterating the importance of collaboration with key stakeholders, particularly the media.
He noted that the media plays a crucial role in promoting anti-corruption efforts. To align its strategies with national priorities, the ICPC has developed a robust Communication Strategy and reviewed its Communication Policy to reflect current realities.
Keynote speaker Dr. Ike Neliaku addressed the pervasive nature of corruption in Nigerian society, pointing out that it undermines various sectors through power misuse, bribery, embezzlement, and fraud. He reported that the country lost an estimated $18 billion to corruption between 2013 and 2023, asserting, “Corruption is so widespread that the pen has been badly threatened and seems to have become blunt.”
The workshop saw participation from approximately 67 media practitioners and stakeholders, all dedicated to addressing corruption in Nigeria.