The Lagos state office of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has urged newly recruited cadets of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) to display a high level of integrity in the course of their official duty.
The charge was given by the Resident Anti-Corruption Commissioner (RACC) of the office, Mr. Kabir Elelu, who was represented by Mrs Mary Omonoyan, during a paper presentation titled: “Public Service Ethics and Integrity Compliance in Nigeria” held at the Auditorium of Nigeria Customs Training College, Ikeja, Lagos.
The RACC stated that always exhibiting strong ethical principles even when no one was watching was necessary in strengthening ethical principles; adding that a person with integrity acts with honesty and truthfulness, and that makes a person accountable and responsible.
The Commissioner further harped on the need for the trainees to present a good image and impression to the public about their organisation since they regularly interface with the public. They can change the narrative and rebrand their organisation through embracing and promoting ethical behaviour in the workplace.
Mr. Kabir also spoke about ethical and integrity issues around gifts and hospitality, explaining that in the ICPC Act 2000, it is an offence to offer, promise or give bribe; request, agree to receive or accept a bribe. Therefore, the acceptance of gifts can leave an organisation vulnerable to accusations of unfairness, partiality or deceit.
The Commandant of the College, Deputy Comptroller, Haniel Hadison, thanked ICPC for honouring the invitation and presented the speaker with a plaque.