The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has made a firm commitment to ensure that corrupt individuals do not get away with enjoying their ill-gotten gains. This declaration was made by the chairman of the commission, Prof. Bolaji Owasanoye, at the inauguration of the ICPC’s prototype state office building in Akure, the capital of Ondo State.
Prof. Owasanoye emphasized that the fight against corruption in Nigeria is steadily moving forward thanks to the combined efforts of stakeholders in the country. The ICPC, in collaboration with credible partners, has been actively combating Illicit Financial Flows (IFFs) out of the country.
Through the utilization of their Proceeds of Crime Tracing, Recovery, and Management tool, the ICPC has successfully deprived corrupt individuals of the luxury of enjoying their ill-gotten wealth. Prof. Owasanoye stated, “The commission, in compliance with the recently passed Proceeds of Crime Act 2002, has disposed of certain assets that were acquired through criminal means, resulting in their final forfeiture.”
He emphasized that the fight against corruption is not solely the responsibility of anti-corruption and law enforcement agencies but a collective effort of every member of society. Prof. Owasanoye stressed that the battle against corruption is crucial to maintaining the stability, peace, and progress of our society. He warned that failure to actively combat corruption could lead to a social crisis.
The ICPC chairman called on the Ondo State government to join forces in the fight against corruption. He commended Ondo for hosting one of the prototype buildings as part of the commission’s initiative across the nation. The newly inaugurated two-storey state office facility is equipped with a conference room, staff offices, interview rooms, a detention facility, a library, and storage rooms, among other amenities. This state-of-the-art building will enhance the efficiency and productivity of ICPC officers deployed in Ondo State.
The ICPC continues to make strides in its efforts to eradicate corruption in Nigeria. Its commitment to holding corrupt individuals accountable and ensuring that they do not benefit from their illicit activities is a vital step towards a more transparent and just society.
