The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has issued a stern warning that any local government official caught misappropriating public funds will face prosecution as the new local government fiscal autonomy takes effect nationwide.
The warning was delivered by ICPC Chairman, Dr. Musa Adamu, during the launch of the Accountability and Corruption Prevention Programme for Local Governments (ACPP-LG) in Abuja on Thursday. The initiative is designed to prevent corruption in Nigeria’s 774 local government areas (LGAs) by enforcing transparency and accountability in financial operations.
To achieve this, ICPC will monitor local government budgets and expenditures across five thematic areas:
1. Fiscal Transparency
2. Open Procurement
3. Human Resources Management
4. Corruption Control
5. Citizen Engagement in Budget Imp
Dr. Adamu emphasized that the program will help detect and prevent financial mismanagement to ensure that funds allocated for local development are properly utilized.
“This initiative aligns with the Supreme Court’s ruling on July 11, 2024, which restored full financial autonomy to local governments, ensuring direct disbursement of funds and eliminating undue state interference,” he stated.
ICPC has pledged to deploy its investigative and prosecutorial powers to enforce anti-corruption laws at the local government level. Officials found guilty of diverting public funds will be prosecuted and face severe legal consequences.
Dr. Adamu also called for cooperation from state governments, civil society organizations, and the media to ensure proper implementation of local government reforms.
“State governments must support local councils to ensure smooth implementation of these reforms. Civil society organizations and the media have a crucial role in raising awareness and holding local governments accountable,” he said.
To enhance citizen participation, ICPC will leverage technology and social media platforms to allow Nigerians to monitor local government projects and report corruption through its official channels.
The commission reiterated its commitment to strengthening governance, improving service delivery, and restoring public trust in the local government system.