The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, ICPC, revealed its 2023 performance report during an oversight visit by the Senate Committee on Anti-Corruption and Financial Crimes, highlighting key achievements and pressing challenges.
Presenting the report, ICPC Chairman Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu, SAN, disclosed that the Commission received 1,187 petitions last year, out of which 275 cases were investigated, 63 were filed in court, and 18 convictions were secured. For 2024, from January to October, the ICPC received 851 petitions, assigned 243 cases, and secured 13 convictions.
Dr. Aliyu emphasized that despite these achievements, the Commission faces major setbacks due to insufficient funding and limited access to resources, which restricts its capacity to fully tackle corruption and raise public awareness. “Inadequate funding is one of our biggest challenges, affecting our investigations, legal processes, and our ability to educate the public,” he said.
He further noted that limited staffing and low welfare support have strained the ICPC’s efforts, with its 21 state offices lacking adequate resources for effective operations nationwide.
Additionally, Dr. Aliyu raised concerns about staff security, especially during high-stakes investigations, urging for measures similar to those available to other law enforcement agencies. He called for amendments to the ICPC Act to empower the Commission and address these challenges.
In response, Senator Emmanuel Udende, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Anti-Corruption and Financial Crimes, commended the ICPC for its diligence and integrity in tackling corruption. He assured that the National Assembly would work to address the Commission’s funding challenges, especially under the Proceeds of Crime Act, which grants ICPC access to only 2% of its recoveries.
“Two percent is too small. If you’re recovering billions, your operating costs should reflect that,” said Senator Udende, adding that agencies like the Nigeria Customs Service retain up to 50% of their recoveries, and a similar structure should be explored for the ICPC.
Dr. Aliyu concluded by reiterating the need for sustainable legislative and financial backing to support the Commission’s mandate, stressing that with the right support, the ICPC could lead a stronger, more effective fight against corruption across Nigeria.
