In a novel approach to combating corruption at its roots, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) is turning to the age-old art of storytelling to instil ethical values in Nigeria’s next generation of leaders.
The Commission’s Imo State Office recently inaugurated a Students’ Anti-Corruption Club at Comprehensive Secondary School, Emekuku, deploying narrative techniques as a behavioural change strategy that resonates deeply with young minds; a move that underscores the agency’s growing recognition that the war against graft must be fought not only in courtrooms and boardrooms, but also in classrooms.
At the heart of the inauguration ceremony recently held, was an interactive storytelling session led by Mr. Onakpoberuo Onoriode Victor, an Assistant Chief Superintendent with the ICPC. His chosen tale, “The Honesty Pencil,” proved to be a masterstroke of pedagogical engagement.
The narrative followed a young student who, during a classroom examination, discovered a pencil that did not belong to him. Despite having ample opportunity to quietly appropriate the item without detection, the student chose instead to return it to his teacher, guided by the conviction that integrity means “doing the right thing even when no one is watching.”
The story’s impact was immediate and palpable. During the subsequent feedback session, students spontaneously introduced themselves with the prefix “Honest” before their names—a touching tribute that spoke volumes about the narrative’s ability to capture young imaginations and inspire genuine admiration for ethical conduct.
The programme extended beyond storytelling to encompass career development, with facilitators encouraging students to articulate clear visions for their futures. Students were reminded that “any goal without a plan is merely a wish,” and were guided towards developing written career strategies with achievable timelines.
According to the facilitators, purposeful planning serves multiple functions: providing direction, eliminating indiscipline, discouraging time-wasting, and equipping young people to make responsible life choices. The students were further admonished that careers built upon integrity have direct and positive impacts on community development—a message designed to connect personal success with civic responsibility.
Students were subsequently acquainted with the objectives, structure, and activities of the Students’ Anti-Corruption Club, which functions as a civics and leadership development platform dedicated to grooming future leaders averse to corrupt practices. The club members were encouraged to:
1. Conduct regular anti-corruption sensitisation talks within their school community
2. Demonstrate discipline and obedience to school authorities
3. Regard time as one of life’s most precious resources
4. Distinguish themselves as role models of integrity in their schools, homes, and communities
The event reached its emotional zenith with an oath-taking ceremony, during which newly inducted members pledged their commitment to the ideals of integrity, accountability, transparency, and ethical conduct. The students vowed to faithfully uphold the values of the club and serve as worthy ambassadors of the ICPC in the collective fight against corruption; a commitment that carries both symbolic weight and practical implications for their conduct going forward.
In her vote of thanks, the Club Adviser, Mrs. Pauline Ojowundu, expressed gratitude to the ICPC team for the initiative and assured the Commission of the school’s dedication to sustaining the club’s activities—a crucial commitment given that the long-term success of such prog…