By Onyeanya Ebere Immaculata
The Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Dr. Musa Aliyu (SAN), says corruption in Nigeria extends beyond embezzlement to include any deviation from due process or the rule of law.
Aliyu stated this in Abuja during the 2025 National Summit of the Association of Chairmen of Local Government Service Commissions in Nigeria. Represented by his Special Assistant on Legal Matters, Zainab Nass, he said, “Corruption is not just about stealing money; it is anything that deviates from the rule. It is corruption not to follow due process.”
He warned local government officials against financial misconduct, nepotism, and abuse of office, stressing that such acts now attract serious legal sanctions.
Citing the 2024 Supreme Court judgment that restored the autonomy of local councils, Aliyu described it as “a new dawn for grassroots governance,” urging councils to ensure public funds serve the people, not private interests.
He traced Nigeria’s anti-corruption journey from past campaigns to the establishment of ICPC in 2000, noting that the Commission’s three pillars – enforcement, prevention, and public education-remain key to integrity in governance.
Aliyu urged local government leaders to embrace transparency and accountability, stressing that national progress depends on responsible management of public resources.
