The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) in Benue State has agreed to collaborate with the Nasarawa State Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to curb electoral offences in the upcoming general elections.
This agreement was reached during a courtesy visit by the ICPC Benue State Resident Anti-Corruption Commissioner (RACC), Mr. Menge Tiku to the Resident Electoral Commissioner, Nasarawa state, Dr. Uthman Ajidagba recently.
Mr. Tiku highlighted ICPC three-pronged mandate of enforcement, prevention, public enlightenment and education, stating that the visit was in line with the third component of enlisting and fostering public support in the anti-corruption war.
He reiterated the Commission’s commitment to the fight against electoral malpractices such as vote buying and selling.
The Resident Electoral Commissioner of INEC, Nasarawa state Dr. Uthman Ajidagba who welcomed the ICPC team, said that the meeting between ICPC and INEC was a great initiative that will give his people opportunity to interact on issues that border on how to fight corruption, curb electoral malpractice such as vote-buying and selling as well as monitor the financial flow from the politicians during the coming elections.
He agreed that there was need for close collaboration and continuous working relationship between INEC and ICPC in order to bring back the good image of Nigeria in the comity of nations especially during elections, saying that “for a successful war to be waged against corruption in the coming elections, there must be collaborative efforts between the two Commissions”.
Also speaking at the event, the Administrative Secretary of INEC, Mallam Usman Wase commended ICPC for the visit and assured of their readiness in deepening the relationship and collaboration with ICPC in the fight against corruption in INEC and Nasarawa state.