In a vibrant fusion of cultural spectacle and civic advocacy, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) transformed this year’s Sallah Durbar in Katsina into a powerful platform for public sensitisation, reaching thousands of spectators with a resonant call for integrity.
At the heart of the campaign was a striking display of synergy between traditional institutions and the anti-corruption crusade. Leading the charge was Alhaji Garba Tukur Idris, fsi, mni, the ICPC Director, who is also the Makaman Katsina and District Head of Bakori Local Government in Katsina State. Mounted on horseback and adorned in traditional regalia, he rode as part of the historic Durbar procession, boldly bearing a placard emblazoned with the slogan “Corruption Must Go.” His participation underscored the growing collaboration between the emirate and anti-corruption agencies in championing accountability.
Complementing the display, a team of youth volunteers, coordinated by Muhammad Kabir Goda of the ICPC Katsina State Office, moved through the crowd, engaging the public with sensitisation materials and reinforcing the Commission’s preventive mandate.
The event drew an array of high-profile dignitaries, including the Resident Anti-Corruption Commissioner, Mr. Samuel Lodam; the Executive Governor of Katsina State, Dr. Dikko Umar Radda; the Emir of Katsina, Alhaji Abdulmumini Kabir Usman, CFR; and a member of the ICPC Board, Hon. Justice Adamu Bello (Rtd), who also holds the title of Sarkin Pauwan Katsina and District Head of Kankara.
Adding to the occasion’s grandeur were 17 foreign ambassadors and other distinguished guests, who watched with admiration as the rich cultural heritage of Hausa land unfolded before them. The colourful equestrian displays, centuries-old pageantry, and the seamless integration of a modern governance message left a lasting impression on the international visitors.
By embedding its sensitisation drive into one of the region’s most cherished cultural events, the ICPC reaffirmed its commitment to grassroots engagement, leveraging the massive turnout to promote transparency, public participation, and a collective resolve to uphold integrity across Nigeria.