The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has underscored its commitment to strengthening integrity at the local level by promoting its Accountability and Corruption Prevention Programme for Local Government (ACPP-LG) in Lagos.
During a retreat for newly elected councillors at Novotel Hotel in Lekki, the initiative was presented on behalf of the Resident Anti-Corruption Commissioner, Mr. Alexander Chukura, by Chief Superintendent Hadiza Rimi. The event was organised by the Lagos State Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development.
In a paper titled “Preventing Corruption in Local Government Administration,” Rimi emphasised that corruption at the community level fundamentally undermines service delivery, erodes public trust, and stunts sustainable development. She urged the councillors to embrace transparency, accountability, and ethical leadership as the cornerstone principles of their tenure.
The ACPP-LG was described as a strategic framework designed to institutionalise anti-corruption mechanisms within local councils. It focuses on strengthening internal controls, improving procurement practices, ensuring financial transparency, and building the capacity of officials to prevent, detect, and address corrupt practices.
Rimi stated that effective implementation would lead to the prudent management of public funds, reduced revenue leakage, enhanced accountability, improved public services, greater citizen trust, and sustainable grassroots development.
She also addressed the implications of the recent Supreme Court ruling affirming local government financial autonomy, calling it a landmark decision that brings both opportunity and greater responsibility. While it empowers councils to drive development directly, she cautioned that it also demands heightened discipline, transparency, and accountability. Without robust governance structures, she warned, such autonomy could lead to the misuse of public funds and entrench corruption locally.
The Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by his Special Adviser on Environment, Engr. Olakunle Akodu, encouraged the councillors to support the state’s development agenda through good governance, environmental stewardship, and ethical leadership. He reminded them that their positions are platforms for public service, not personal gain.
The retreat aimed to equip the councillors with the knowledge, skills, and ethical grounding required for effective local administration. Participants commended the ICPC and the Lagos State Government for the initiative, noting that the insights on corruption prevention and accountability would be invaluable in guiding their work for constituents.