The Independent Corruption and Other Related Crime Commission (ICPC) issued a harsh warning that any local government officials will face prosecutions for theft of public funds as new local government fiscal autonomous companies will take effect nationwide.
The warning was issued by ICPC Chairman Dr Musa Adamu during the launch of the Local Government (ACPP-LG) in Abuja on Thursday. The initiative aims to prevent corruption in 774 local government regions (LGAs) in Nigeria by implementing transparency and accountability in financial operations.
To this end, ICPC will monitor local government budgets and expenditures in five thematic areas:
1. Financial transparency
2. Open purchase
3. Human Resources Management
4. Corruption control
5. Citizen Participation Budget
Dr. Adamu stressed that the program will help detect and prevent financial mismanagement to ensure the correct use of funds allocated to local development.
“This initiative is consistent with the Supreme Court’s ruling on July 11, 2024, which restores full financial autonomy to local governments, ensures direct payment of funds and eliminates improper state intervention,” he said.
The ICPC has committed to deploying its right to investigate and prosecute to enforce anti-corruption laws at the local government level. Officials found guilty of transferring public funds would be prosecuted and face serious legal consequences.
Dr. Adamu also called for cooperation with state governments, civil society organizations and the media to ensure the correct implementation of local government reforms.
“State governments must support local councils to ensure smooth implementation of these reforms. Civil society organizations and the media play a crucial role in raising awareness and holding local governments accountable,” he said.
To enhance civic engagement, ICPC will leverage technology and social media platforms to enable Nigerians to monitor local government projects and report corruption through their official channels.
The Commission reiterated its commitment to strengthening governance, improving service delivery and restoring public trust in the local government system.
