The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has called on Attorneys‑General to enforce the Supreme Court’s judgment on local‑government financial autonomy. ICPC Chairman Dr Musa Adamu Aliyu made the appeal during a round‑table with State Attorneys‑General in the South West, stressing that ministers of justice must uphold the rule of law. The meeting, titled “Institutional Integrity and Regional Cooperation: The Role of Attorneys‑General in Advancing a Corruption‑Free South West,” sought to strengthen the ICPC’s capacity for corruption prevention.
Dr Aliyu explained that the commission has been educating local‑government councils and Nigerians about the implications of the Supreme Court decision, even though court orders in some states have barred it from tracking local‑government funds. He noted that Nigerian communities urgently need welfare, sustenance and protection from obstacles that impede access to government resources. Given the complexity of corruption and the country’s size, he said the ICPC cannot tackle the problem alone. He urged Attorneys‑General to advise executives on the correct course of action and to give effect to the Supreme Court judgment.
Keynote speaker Moyosore Onigbanjo, former Attorney‑General of Lagos State, echoed the call for Attorneys‑General to guide executives and ensure the rule of law is observed. He argued that the character of office‑holders matters more than the existence of laws and warned against separating the offices of Attorneys‑General and Commissioners of Justice. Instead, he advocated for structural reforms, capacity‑building and technology adoption to promote transparency and confidence in decision‑making.
The round‑table was attended by Attorneys‑General from Osun, Ekiti, Ondo, Ogun and Lagos States, as well as representatives from the Senate and House Committees on Anti‑Corruption and Financial Crimes. The ICPC’s appeal underscores ongoing efforts to strengthen institutions and promote good governance in Nigeria. As the country continues to grapple with corruption and development challenges, the role of Attorneys‑General in upholding the rule of law and fostering transparency will be crucial to achieving a corruption‑free society.
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