The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has engaged staff and management of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) in a one-day sensitisation programme on anti-corruption laws, held in Imo State. The event underscored the critical link between integrity, accountability, and sustainable development in the Niger Delta.
In his opening remarks, Mr. Nnamdi Ezeifedi, Principal Manager (NDDC, Imo), who represented State Director Barr. Patrick Obayeho, commended the ICPC for the initiative. He noted that NDDC operates under intense public scrutiny and must align its processes with established accountability standards.
Delivering the keynote lecture titled “An Overview of the ICPC Act and Confronting Corruption Through Accountability in NDDC,” Mrs. Chinwe Egbeocha, Deputy Director, ICPC Imo State, outlined key provisions of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000. She highlighted the ICPC’s independence under Section 3 of the Act, defined corruption (citing the World Bank as “abuse of entrusted power for private gain”), and identified greed, systemic weaknesses, and the Fraud Triangle (opportunity, pressure, rationalisation) as primary drivers.
Mrs. Egbeocha detailed offences ranging from bribery and abuse of office to non-reporting of corruption, aiding offenders, and dealing with proceeds of crime—penalties include fines and imprisonment of up to seven years. She stressed that even inaction or failure to report known corruption is punishable. The ICPC also covers attempts and conspiracies.
She warned that corruption undermines infrastructure delivery, deters investment, and fuels unemployment and poverty. Participants were provided with ICPC reporting channels:
· Email: info@icpc.gov.ng
· Website: www.icpc.gov.ng
· Toll-free: 08031230280, 08031230281, 08031230282 (MTN); 07056990190, 07056990191 (GLO)
Mrs. Egbeocha urged NDDC staff to strengthen internal controls, display anti-corruption messages in workspaces, and ensure strict compliance with procurement laws. She expressed concern over abandoned NDDC projects, stating they fail local communities’ expectations. “Let NDDC stand for integrity and stand firmly against corruption,” she charged.
Responding, Mr. Nnamdi Ezeifedi reaffirmed NDDC’s commitment to transparency, citing ongoing initiatives such as the Light Up the Niger Delta Project, solar-powered water schemes, and enterprise training for women and youth.
The programme concluded with a call to daily ethical choices, reminding participants that true development is measured not only by impact but by integrity.