The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has reaffirmed its commitment to combating corruption and enhancing transparency in local government administration across Nigeria.
ICPC Chairman, Dr. Musa Aliyu (SAN), stated this during a stakeholders’ meeting of the ICPC Accountability and Corruption Prevention Programme for Local Governments (ACPPLG) held on Thursday in Abuja.
Dr. Aliyu emphasized the Commission’s resolve to rebuild public trust by strengthening governance structures and improving service delivery at the grassroots level.
“Local governments play a crucial role in providing essential public services and driving grassroots development. As the tier of government closest to the people, their effectiveness has a direct impact on citizens’ welfare,” he said.
He noted that systemic challenges such as financial mismanagement, lack of transparency, and governance inefficiencies have long hindered local governments from fulfilling their constitutional responsibilities.
“The Supreme Court’s landmark ruling in July 2024 reaffirming the financial autonomy of local governments presents a unique opportunity to reposition this critical sector. However, autonomy alone is not enough—we must establish robust frameworks to ensure that local government funds are managed transparently and used for the benefit of the people,” he said.
According to him, the ICPC developed the ACPPLG to strengthen financial management, enhance transparency, and promote proactive disclosure in local government administration.
Key objectives of the programme include:
Promoting transparency in local government operations and decision-making
Facilitating the proactive disclosure of financial and administrative activities
Enhancing public communication and citizen engagement in governance
Training local government officials on ethical governance and accountability
Leveraging technology to improve access to public information
Fostering collaboration among councils, civil society, and development partners
Establishing performance monitoring mechanisms
Promoting inclusive governance by involving marginalized groups
Encouraging sustainable development in policy-making
Dr. Aliyu explained that the ACPPLG assessment framework is built around five thematic areas: fiscal transparency, open procurement, human resources, corruption control, and citizen engagement.
“To meet these goals, ACPPLG will deploy the ICPC’s investigative, prosecutorial, and regulatory functions. This includes legislative enforcement, periodic audits, and oversight to ensure compliance,” he added.
He also urged state governments to support local government councils and facilitate the smooth implementation of reforms.
In a goodwill message, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Mr. Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), represented by Mr. Mohammed Abubakar, praised the ICPC’s commitment to promoting good governance. He said the initiative aligns with the National Anti-Corruption Strategy and reflects a commendable model of collaborative governance.
Senator Emmanuel Udende, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Anti-Corruption and Financial Crimes, represented by Senator Anthony Yaro, assured stakeholders of the committee’s support for policies promoting responsible public fund management.
“The National Assembly, through its oversight functions, will ensure that allocations to local governments translate into real development and effective service delivery. Our collective aim is to combat poverty and underdevelopment,” he said.
Also speaking, Hon. Kayode Akiolu, Chairman of the House Committee on Anti-Corruption, described the ACPPLG initiative as a vital step toward ensuring accountability and preventing corruption in local government administration.
