The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) have reaffirmed their commitment to collaborate in combating corruption through investigative journalism.
This commitment was made during a one-day workshop for media professionals, themed “The Power of the Pen in the Fight Against Corruption.” The MacArthur Foundation supported the workshop, which focused on fostering a lasting partnership between the ICPC and NUJ to enhance corruption prevention efforts.
In his opening remarks, ICPC Chairman, Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu, SAN, who emphasized the importance of government efforts in tackling corruption and abuse of power highlighted the longstanding collaboration between ICPC and the media.
According to him, the ICPC and the Press have joint initiatives such as investigative journalism training, radio and TV programs, and the Constituency and Executive Projects Tracking Initiative, all of which aim to engage the fourth estate of the realm in the anti-corruption campaign.
Dr. Aliyu underscored the media’s crucial role in amplifying these anti-corruption initiatives, ensuring public resources are properly utilized, and that projects adhere to quality standards.
He, however expressed concern over the underreporting of the Commission’s work, calling for stronger alliances to broaden public awareness stressing, “There is still much work to be done in raising awareness of ICPC’s initiatives, as many of the Commission’s efforts remain underreported or overlooked. It is essential to build coalitions and partnerships to bring more voices on board.”
Dr. Aliyu also stressed the need for investigative journalism to be guided by principles of human rights, emphasizing that both the media and anti-corruption agencies must operate within these boundaries adding, “The media’s power to shape public opinion, expose corruption, and drive accountability is immense, and investigative journalism remains a key tool in this effort,”.
In a goodwill message, Senator Emmanuel M. Udende, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Anti-corruption and Financial Crimes, represented by Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan, praised the ICPC for its efforts in both corruption prevention and enforcement.
Senator Udende while urging the media to amplify calls for transparency and accountability in governance, noting that the press serves as a powerful agenda-setter.
“The theme of this event is timely. The press wields significant power through its pens, microphones, and cameras, shaping narratives, exposing corruption, and driving social change,” Senator Udende remarked.
Dr. Kole Shettima, Country Director of the MacArthur Foundation, highlighted the role of investigative journalism in exposing corruption while also celebrating those advancing transparency and accountability. He stressed the importance of balancing coverage by promoting stories that inspire positive change.
His words, “When the public sees positive examples, it not only strengthens trust in institutions but also encourages more people to engage in ethical practice, the media plays an instrumental role in shaping perceptions and narratives. It is crucial to expose corruption, but it is equally important to promote individuals and institutions that are making positive contributions to the country’s development.”
Representatives from various media organizations, including the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) and the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), also spoke on the media’s responsibility to inform and educate the public on corruption. They emphasized that corruption extends beyond government officials, urging journalists to uphold ethical standards while pursuing their work.
The NUJ president, Mr. Chris Isiguzo, called for better protection for journalists, stressing that without adequate safety measures, journalists remain vulnerable to threats. He encouraged media practitioners to maintain ethical integrity in their reporting.
The workshop featured a panel discussion on enhancing collaboration between anti-corruption agencies and the media, moderated by Abdulsalam Badamasi, Special Assistant to the ICPC Chairman on Media and Strategy. Panelists included representatives from the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), and other key stakeholders.
The workshop concluded with a call for stronger partnerships between the media and anti-corruption bodies, reinforcing the role of investigative journalism in promoting accountability and transparency across Nigeria.