Shocking: 60% of Corruption Cases Divert Vital Healthcare & Infrastructure Funds!

Musa Aliyu (SAN), Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, has revealed that more than 60% of corruption cases investigated by the commission involve the diversion of public funds intended for critical projects such as healthcare and infrastructure.

Aliyu made this remark on Thursday during a stakeholders' meeting in Abuja to formally present the commission's Accountability and Corruption Prevention Programme for Local Governments.

According to him, the project attempts to reduce corruption, financial mismanagement, and governance flaws in Nigeria's 774 local councils.

"Local governments play an important role in providing public services." However, many have struggled as a result of inadequate transparency systems and financial malfeasance.

"This initiative is urgent—over 60% of corruption cases investigated by ICPC at this level involve the diversion of public resources meant for critical projects such healthcare and infrastructure," Aliyu told reporters.

He emphasized the importance of the Supreme Court's July 11, 2024 decision, which upheld budgetary sovereignty for local governments.

Aliyu informed everyone that the ICPC is still committed to upholding anti-corruption laws and promoting transparency, accountability, and efficiency in local government administration.

He explained that the ACPP-LG is intended to promote financial management, governance standards, and proactive transparency in local governments.

"Key aims include promoting transparency in local government processes. Facilitating the proactive disclosure of financial and administrative actions. Improving citizen engagement in governance. Training local officials in ethical governance.

Using technology to promote transparency. Encourages collaboration between local governments and development partners. Establishing methods to monitor governance performance and encouraging inclusive engagement in decision-making," Aliyu stated.

He stated that to achieve these objectives, the ICPC would use its investigative, prosecutorial, and regulatory duties to assure compliance through legislative enforcement, periodic audits, and monitoring mechanisms to detect and resolve noncompliance.

Aliyu noted that state governments must support local councils to ensure that these reforms are implemented smoothly and without administrative impediments. Beyond preventive measures, Aliyu emphasized the commission's determination to prosecute cases of fund diversion.

He stated that violators would face the full force of the law, ensuring that public resources are used for their intended objectives.

"In addition to these preventive measures, the ICPC will not hesitate to prosecute cases of fund diversion, ensuring that offenders face the full weight of the law." The ACPP-LG is more than just governance reform; it is about justice, deterrent, and ensuring that public resources are used as intended.

"The struggle against corruption at the grassroots level is about Nigeria's future. Let us work together to guarantee that every kobo designated for development is used to benefit the people," he stated.