Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu, SAN, on Wednesday revealed how the commission recovered over N20 billion siphoned through fraudulent ghost workers’ pension schemes in 2024.
According to the chairman, the ICPC uncovered what it described as “fraudulent insertion” of workers in some Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) as part of its preventive activities.
Aliyu made this disclosure during the “Editors’ Breakfast Meeting with ICPC Chairman,” an interactive session organised by the ICPC for media executives, in Abuja.
A statement made available to journalists by Demola Bakare, the Director, Public Enlightenment and Education, who also doubles as spokesperson for the commission noted the chairman emphasised that the fight against corruption cannot be waged by anti-graft agencies alone, stressing the need for collective efforts to drive national progress.
He stated that the ICPC has adopted a strategic communication approach in line with the 1999 Constitution and the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, which ensures that the Commission remains strict and diligent in its operations, while it upholds the rule of law and human dignity.
“Over the years, ICPC has followed a communication strategy guided by Section 36 and Section 27(4) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000.
“These legal provisions safeguard suspects’ rights. While we remain firm and meticulous in our duties, we are equally committed to upholding the rule of law and human dignity,” he stated.
Dr. Aliyu also underscored the importance of responsible information dissemination, particularly in safeguarding informants and preserving the integrity of ongoing investigations.
“In matters of enforcement, we share verified information through reports, newsletters, press releases, our website, and social media. However, we ensure that the identities of informants are protected and that the integrity of our investigations is not compromised,” he added.
Meanwhile, the statement noted the commission is not seeking public validation but rather remains focused on delivering measurable results based on its Strategic Action Plan (2024-2028).
“We want our work to be evaluated based on our performance standards, not the need for attention or approval. Our commitment is to provide accurate information without exaggeration or self-promotion.
“Additionally, we pledge to respond promptly to media inquiries while adhering to legal and ethical guidelines,” he affirmed.
Dr. Aliyu further disclosed that the ICPC is collaborating with reputable civil society organisations to implement a Corruption Prevention Program for Local Governments.
He stated that the initiative aims to promote proactive disclosure of financial, procurement, and corruption-related information at the grassroots level.
The chairman, while recognising the media as a vital stakeholder in the anti-corruption fight, called on journalists to work closely with the ICPC to enhance public awareness and amplify the commission’s programs.
In his opening remarks, the Vice President of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Professor Sule Ya’u Sule, commended the ICPC for the initiative, and stressed the need for his colleagues to support the Commission’s mission by reporting credible and timely information.
Similarly, the Deputy Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) Mrs. Hussaina Banshika, expressed gratitude for the engagement and urged the ICPC Chairman to institutionalise regular interactions with the media to foster greater synergy and collaboration in the fight against corruption.
