ICPC Seizes Assets Worth Over N450bn In 3 Years, Calls For Media Collaboration

By Aminu Bala Madobi

The Resident Commissioner of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) for Kano and Jigawa States, Mr. Ibrahim Garba Kagara, urged media houses to collaborate and synergize effectively in reporting the commission’s activities.

During a one-day capacity building training session for journalists held on Thursday in Kano metropolis, the Commissioner emphasized the program’s main objective of interacting with journalists and reminding them of their crucial role in investigating and reporting on corruption, which undermines the country’s socioeconomic development.

Kagara emphasized that collaboration, synergy, and cooperation with the press are essential for informing the general public about the dangers of corruption, stating, “We want to have the press on our side for the commission’s success.”

Mr. Kagara added that no agency alone could fight corruption without collective efforts from individual, groups, institutions and above all media.

He called on the press and members of society to freely engage with the commission for information or inquiries regarding corrupt activities for immediate action, either through their website or office in the state.

During his presentation, the Assistant Commissioner in the state, Mr. Hassan Salihu, underscored the commission’s achievements from 2019 to 2022, including the investigation of 4,705 cases to logical conclusion, filing 309 cases in various courts, and prosecuting 387 cases in different courts. Additionally, the ICPC has seized / recovered valuable goods or assets worth over N450 billion within the period under review.

Head of Operations Department, Mr. Abubakar Jibrin, elaborated on the Commission’s mandate and the Chairman’s Care Vision, while Femi Gold presented a paper on the role of media in the fight against corruption, among other discussions.

Journalists from various media organizations, including print, broadcast, and online media, across the state were in attendance.