ICPC launches anti-corruption programme for local governments to boost transparency

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) is set to officially launch the Accountability and Corruption Prevention Programme for Local Governments (CPP-LG), aimed at tackling systemic corruption and promoting transparency at the grassroots level across Nigeria.

This initiative, revealed in a statement signed by Demola Bakare, Director of Public Enlightenment and Education and spokesperson for the ICPC, comes on the heels of recent legal confirmations of local government autonomy—developments expected to strengthen financial independence and operational efficiency in the country’s 774 local government areas.

Speaking at a summit organized by the Gombe State Government on “Local Government Autonomy, Fiscal Responsibility, and Sustainable Development” on Wednesday, Musa Aliyu, ICPC Chairman, highlighted the critical need to strengthen accountability within local government administration.

In his paper, “Enhancing Transparency and Accountability in Local Governance: Strategies for Combating Corruption in Nigeria,” Aliyu emphasized the essential role local governments play in delivering basic services to communities but lamented the deep-rooted corruption that continues to undermine their effectiveness.

“Systemic corruption undermines the effectiveness of local government functions, leading to inefficiencies, misallocation of resources, and eroded public trust.

“The lack of transparency and accountability further exacerbates these challenges, creating an enabling environment for corrupt practices,” he stated.

Aliyu outlined a multi-faceted approach to address these challenges, including strengthening legal and institutional frameworks, enhancing financial autonomy, professionalizing local government services, encouraging citizen participation, and enforcing existing anti-corruption laws.

He also disclosed that the ICPC has already begun implementing mechanisms to monitor and evaluate local government performance, including regular audits, public reporting, and promoting citizen engagement in governance.

“The formal launch of the Accountability and Corruption Prevention Programme (CPP-LG) marks a significant step in our broader anti-corruption efforts at the grassroots level,” Aliyu said.

He stressed that combating corruption in local governments is crucial for fostering a more equitable and transparent society.

“By fortifying legal frameworks, leveraging technology, encouraging civic engagement, building institutional capacity, and fostering international cooperation, Nigeria can create an environment where integrity thrives,” he added.

Aliyu called for a united front in the fight against corruption, urging collaboration among government agencies, civil society organizations, the private sector, and the international community.

“The fight against corruption demands collective action and unwavering dedication. Though the journey may be challenging, the rewards of a corruption-free society—where resources are utilized for the public good and every citizen can thrive—are immeasurable,” he noted.