The Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu, SAN, has called on the National Assembly to expedite the passage of the Whistleblower Protection Bill to bolster efforts against corruption in Nigeria.
Dr. Aliyu made the appeal on Monday during the ICPC Roundtable Engagement with State Attorneys-General from the North West, held in Kano.
The meeting focused on enhancing ICPC’s capacity to prevent corruption and foster accountability.
“Passing the Whistleblower Bill into law is essential to encourage individuals who want to expose corrupt practices and perpetrators,” he stated. “I urge the National Assembly to act swiftly to ensure its enactment.”
The ICPC Chairman also emphasized the importance of collective action in the fight against corruption, urging Nigerians to resist and report bribery demands.
“No single individual or government can effectively combat corruption alone. It requires a united front,” he said, adding, “ICPC will continue to collaborate with stakeholders to address corruption within the confines of the law.”
Dr. Aliyu called for greater cooperation between the ICPC and Attorneys-General in the North West to build transparent systems that serve the public.
“Under Section 6 of the Corrupt Practices Act, ICPC is empowered to investigate and prosecute corruption across all public sectors. However, local knowledge and support from state officials are crucial for more effective outcomes,” he explained.
Highlighting progress, Dr. Aliyu revealed that in 2023, 70% of Nigerians approached for bribes refused to comply. He noted that the North West recorded the highest resistance rate, with 76% of individuals rejecting bribery demands.
“We must continue to encourage Nigerians, particularly in the North West, to resist such unethical practices,” he remarked.
In his contribution, Justice Muhammad Lawal Shu’aibu, Presiding Justice of the Court of Appeal, Sokoto Division, urged anti-graft agencies to intensify their efforts against corruption.
“Corruption undermines the development and prosperity of any nation. It is vital that all stakeholders remain resolute in addressing this menace,” Justice Shu’aibu said.
