The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has commenced the tracking of constituency projects valued at N21 billion in Kaduna State. This initiative is part of the commission’s efforts to ensure accountability and transparency in the execution of government-funded projects across the country.
Speaking during the launch of the exercise, ICPC officials disclosed that the tracking covers a wide range of projects initiated in various sectors, including education, health, water resources, and infrastructure. These projects were funded through allocations tied to lawmakers representing Kaduna State at both the federal and state levels.
The initiative, under the ICPC’s Constituency and Executive Project Tracking Exercise, aims to identify discrepancies between funds released and the actual implementation of projects. The commission’s team is tasked with inspecting project sites, assessing the quality of work done, and engaging with local communities to verify the impact of these projects.
According to the ICPC, constituency projects are meant to address pressing needs within communities and improve the standard of living for citizens. However, cases of abandoned or poorly executed projects have raised concerns about mismanagement and corruption in the use of public funds.
“This exercise is crucial in holding public officeholders and contractors accountable. The government allocates these funds for the benefit of the people, and it is our duty to ensure that they are used effectively,” said an ICPC representative overseeing the tracking process in Kaduna.
Residents in the state have lauded the commission’s efforts, with many expressing hope that the initiative will deter corruption and improve service delivery. Some, however, criticized the slow pace of implementation for certain projects and called for stricter penalties for those found culpable of diverting public funds.
The N21 billion constituency projects under review include health centers, classroom blocks, rural electrification projects, and boreholes. Preliminary findings from the tracking exercise are expected to be compiled into a comprehensive report, which will guide further actions by the commission.
The ICPC has reiterated its commitment to combating corruption and promoting good governance, stressing that the tracking initiative is a vital step toward restoring public confidence in government spending. The Kaduna State exercise is part of a broader national effort, as similar tracking projects are being carried out across other states in Nigeria.
