By Doris Isreal Ijeoma
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has pledged to address corruption among members of state Houses of Assembly.
Musa Aliyu, the ICPC Chairman, made this statement on Tuesday in Abuja during the opening of a three-day workshop for Jigawa State legislators. The workshop, titled “Transparency and Accountability: Effective Legislative Tools Towards Successful Mandate Delivery,” focused on enhancing legislative effectiveness.
Aliyu expressed concern about widespread corruption in the country and stressed the need for legislators to uphold integrity in all aspects of their roles.
He assured that the ICPC is committed to working with state legislatures to combat corruption effectively.
“We are prepared to collaborate with the state legislatures to advance our fight against corruption, as we have with other branches and levels of government,” Aliyu said. “However, we will not hesitate to take decisive action when necessary.”
He emphasized that the ICPC would continue to fulfill its mandate of enforcement, prevention, public education, and mass mobilization within the bounds of the law. Aliyu also highlighted the importance of prioritizing national interest over personal or collective interests, as demonstrated by President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
“The principle of separation of powers must be upheld; any encroachment on the functions of the executive or judiciary undermines democracy and good governance,” Aliyu stated.
He added that the legislature has a crucial role in identifying waste, inefficiency, corruption, and mismanagement of public resources. Effective execution of these functions requires transparency and accountability, underscoring the significance of the workshop.
