The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences
Commission, ICPC, says corruption has severely brought Nigeria’s economic and
social development to its knees
This is as the commission urged Nigerians to summon the
courage needed to expose corrupt practices and combat the scourge.
Resident Anti-Corruption Commissioner of ICPC, Mrs Ekere
Usiere made this statement on Thursday in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State capital to
mark the Anti-Corruption Day organised by the Anti-Corruption and Transparency
Unit of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board, NCDMB.
She stressed the urgent need for the citizens to fight
corruption, warning that failure to act decisively could have dire consequences
for the nation’s future.
“There is no gainsaying that the scourge of corruption has
brought Nigeria to its knees, from economic underdevelopment to socio-political
decadence.
“If we don’t kill corruption, corruption will definitely
kill Nigeria,” Usiere said.
She emphasized the significance of whistleblowing as a
critical tool in the fight against corruption, urging Nigerians to overcome
fear and adopt a courageous mindset to expose malpractices.
“Citizens need to overcome cultural, psychological, and
systemic challenges to blow the whistle against corruption. If you see
something, you must say something. If you hear something, you must say
something,” she added.
Earlier, the Executive Secretary of NCDMB, Engr. Felix
Omotsola Ogbe reiterated his commitment to preventing corruption within the
institution and highlighted the importance of raising awareness about its
adverse effects, particularly among the youth.
Ogbe remarked, “Today, we are marking and celebrating
International Anti-Corruption Day, focusing on raising the consciousness of our
youth about the ills of corruption and its impact on socio-economic
development. This is to send a strong message for extra vigilance in combating
this menace.”
Last modified: December 7, 2024
