The Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu (SAN), has revealed that 70% of Nigerians refused to offer bribes when approached in 2023, showcasing a growing resistance to corruption across the country.
Speaking during a conference with State Attorneys-General in the North-West zone held in Kano, Dr. Aliyu highlighted the importance of collective efforts in the fight against corruption. Themed “Establishing a Community of Practice for Attorneys-General,” the conference aimed to strengthen partnerships in promoting accountability and transparency nationwide.
According to Dr. Aliyu, the North-West region recorded the highest refusal rate to bribery at 76%, reflecting a commendable shift in public attitudes toward corruption.
He stated, “Despite challenges, the positive news is that 70% of Nigerians approached for a bribe in 2023 refused to comply on at least one occasion. In the North-West, 76% of individuals resisted bribery demands, the highest rate among Nigeria’s geopolitical zones.”
The ICPC chairman underscored the need for collaborative efforts to sustain these gains. “No single arm of government or agency can fight corruption alone. We need to come together locally, regionally, and internationally to create systems of accountability and transparency,” he added.
Kano State Chief Judge, Justice Dije Abdu Aboki, commended the ICPC’s preventive approach, emphasizing that addressing the root causes of corruption is a sustainable strategy. She revealed that the Kano State Judiciary has implemented proactive measures, including the establishment of the Judicial Public Complaints Committee (JPCC).
Justice Aboki said, “The Judiciary must lead by example in upholding the rule of law. The JPCC has been instrumental in addressing grievances and promoting accountability, ensuring transparency within the judiciary itself.”
Dr. Aliyu called on North-West Attorneys-General to work closely with the ICPC to fortify anti-corruption frameworks. He pledged the Commission’s commitment to using law enforcement powers and preventive measures to combat corruption effectively.
“As stakeholders, we must continue to encourage people to resist bribery demands. The ICPC will enlist public support while operating strictly within the confines of the law,” he affirmed.
