The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has inaugurated a new Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU) at the Cross River Basin Development Authority (CRBDA), marking a significant step in the joint effort to root out malpractice and embed accountability within the agency.
During inaugural ceremony at the Authority’s Calabar headquarters, CRBDA⁷ Managing Director Obongawan Glory Ekpo Oho welcomed the ICPC delegation and stressed the urgent need for change.
Mrs Oho lamented that corruption and unethical conduct had long undermined the public service entities core mandates in water resources and agricultural development,
This inauguration is not a formality, ” Mrs Oho stated, “but a clear demonstration of our resolve to ensure transparency, accountability, and integrity the delivery of our statutory functions service).
She promised full operational support for the ACTU, which is composed of staff identified for their integrity, and expressed her administration’s determination to break from past shortcomings.
ICPC;Resident Anti-Corruption Commissioner for Cross River and Akwa Ibom States, Mr Baba-Alaro Shuaib, praised the Authority’s leadership for its commitment to reform; further urging management to integrate the ACTU into key decision-making bodies, including procurement and staff committees, and reaffirmed the Commission’s ongoing support.
Following an inaugural lecture delivered by Chief Superintendent Nsuhoridem Akpan, the ACTU executives were sworn in by Dr Kioba Anabraba, Chief Superintendent Legal.
The newly appointed Chairman of the Unit, Deputy Director Mr Osung Edet Ntekim, pledged that the team would perform its duties without fear or favour, thanking both the ICPC and CRBDA management for the confidence placed in them.
Mr Okor Odey, ICPC’s Head of Media and Public Communications, also addressed the gathering, calling on all public servants to view their roles as an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to society; a responsibility he described as “the highest form of thanksgiving to God.”
The event concluded with a dedicated training session for staff and ACTU members on practical anti-corruption strategies, risk assessment, and mechanisms to promote accountability in the workplace.