The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has urged Nigerian leaders to shun every act of corruption and embrace uprightness in all their activities.
ICPC made this call at the “Do the Right Thing Summit 2023, themed “Being the Right Leader” which held at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Conference Centre FCT, recently.
The Spokesperson of the ICPC, Mrs. Azuka Ogugua who spoke on the Commission’s behalf in her goodwill message, reiterated the commitment of ICPC to its three-pronged mandate of imposing sanctions against corrupt leaders, blocking loopholes in the public system to avert corruption and rallying Nigerians to demand accountability from their leaders.
Mrs. Ogugua remarked that the future, hopes and aspirations of the nation, rested squarely on the shoulders of every leader, and emphasised the importance of having accountable individuals at the helm of affairs.
She commended the resourcefulness and passion of the organizers of the summit for what she described as a “desire to see a new and better Nigeria where discipline is upheld, and integrity is the watchword”. According to her, positive discourses like the summit are meant to inspire present and intending leaders to perform their duties with honesty.
She further noted that the Commission was steadfast in its purpose to work with Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) and other stake holders at ensuring that children and youths are sensitized on the dangers of corruption to make sure they do the right thing at all times.
The convener of the summit and founder of Do the Right Thing for the Less Privilege and Youth Foundation, Chief Mike Nwadiora, said the discourse was born from a commitment to foster positive change, equity and empowerment. He stated that the responsibility to create a just society, rests on the shoulders of leaders in every sector of the nation and it was important to imbibe the culture of ethical decisions and responsible actions.
Chief Nwadiora went further to say that the summit created a space for experts and change makers from various fields, to inspire transformation via thought provoking conversations.
He urged participants to engage in meaningful conversations that will foster ethical leadership through collective wisdom and a determination to do the right thing, while stressing that the “do the right thing” campaign should not just be a slogan, but a way of life that will help navigate the country in the right direction despite the challenges of present times.
Chief Mike advised participants to embrace diversity, as it is a treasure that promotes innovation. In his words, “when we stand together, the impossible becomes possible”.
The Summit was attended by leaders from various relevant sectors including religious, trade, safety, gender advocacy and transportation groups, as well as students and National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members.