ICPC Seeks Improved Collaboration with Lagos Judiciary

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has emphasized the need for sensitization of management and staff of the Judiciary in Lagos State to enhance better collaboration.

The ICPC Lagos Resident Anti-Corruption Commissioner, Mr. Kabir Elelu stated the above during a courtesy visit to the Chief Judge of Lagos State, His Lordship Hon. Justice Kazeem Alogba recently.

Emphasizing the importance of sensitization, he stated that “Staff need to be enlightened on anti-corruption laws, punishments, best practices in the workplace and promote integrity, accountability, and transparency in public service”.

The ICPC Commissioner commended the innovation of the Judiciary on the designation of anti-corruption courts and timely actions taken on matters filed for assignment to court and date for trial.

However, he stressed the need to enlighten staff on the issue of signing search warrants and the demand for gratification by officers in the court before carrying out their official duties.

In response, the Chief Judge of the State, Hon Justice Kazeem Alogba, stated that the sensitization of management and staff should come up as soon as practicable, noting that the issue of collection of bribes by staff is a menace and the management has been working assiduously to bring the perpetrators of such acts to book.

In the meantime, he stressed the need for information about any case that requires the use of the search warrant to accompany any application, as it will give the judge an idea of what he wants to sign.

Alongside the Chief Justice, other judges present were Hon Justice Coker, Hon.  Justice Akeem Oshodi, Hon Justice Oyindamola Ogala, Hon Justice A. M Lawal, the Chief Registrar and other management staff of the Lagos State Judiciary.