Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu (SAN), Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has disclosed that 70% of Nigerians approached for bribes in 2023 rejected the solicitation at least once.
Speaking during a conference with State Attorneys-General from Nigeria’s North-West region, held in Kano, Dr. Aliyu emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in combating corruption. Themed “Establishing a Community of Practice for Attorneys-General,” the event aimed to bolster regional partnerships to create a united front against corrupt practices in the country.
In his address, Dr. Aliyu said, “No single arm of government, tier of government, or agency can effectively fight corruption. To achieve success, we must unite locally, regionally, and internationally to create systems that promote accountability and transparency in our dear country.”
The ICPC Chairman commended the resilience displayed by Nigerians, particularly in the North-West region, where 76% of individuals who encountered bribery requests refused to comply—the highest refusal rate among the nation’s geopolitical zones.
“Despite the challenges, it is encouraging to note that 70% of Nigerians approached for a bribe in 2023 resisted at least once. In the North-West, the refusal rate rose to an impressive 76%, reflecting growing resistance to bribery demands in the region. This shift signifies progress in fostering a culture of integrity and accountability,“ Dr. Aliyu stated.
He called for continued collaboration between the ICPC and regional legal authorities to build sustainable systems of governance. “As stakeholders, we must encourage the people of the North-West and beyond to resist bribery and corruption. The ICPC remains committed to using its law enforcement powers and preventive measures to foster public support and combat corruption within the confines of the law.”
Justice Dije Abdu Aboki, the Chief Judge of Kano State, commended the ICPC’s focus on prevention as a critical strategy in addressing the root causes of corruption. She observed that, while enforcement and prosecution remain essential, preventive measures offer a more sustainable pathway to reducing corruption.
“This preventive approach aligns with the Judiciary’s role in interpreting laws that not only punish but also deter corrupt practices,” Justice Aboki remarked. She further praised the initiative to establish a community of practice among Attorneys-General.
Justice Aboki also elaborated on steps taken by the Kano State Judiciary to promote accountability within its ranks, citing the establishment of the Judicial Public Complaints Committee (JPCC). According to her, “The JPCC operates independently to investigate allegations of misconduct, abuse of power, and corruption within the judiciary, ensuring transparency and reinforcing public trust.”
The conference featured other notable speakers, including Dr. Abdullahi Usman Bello, Chairman of the Code of Conduct Bureau, Justice Muhammad Lawal Shu’aibu, Presiding Judge of the Court of Appeal, Sokoto Division, and the Attorneys-General of Sokoto, Kano, Zamfara, Kaduna, and other North-West states.
