• Says external influences frustrating investigations

Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Dr Musa Adamu Aliyu, has informed the Senate Committee on Anti-Corruption and Financial Crimes that the commission’s personnel involved in high-profiled investigations are facing high security risks.

Aliyu spoke in Abuja while presenting the commission’s performance scorecard over the past year to the Senate Committee. He stressed the need to provide them with adequate security similar to those granted to other agencies.

The ICPC boss also mentioned the difficulties posed by cases involving politically-exposed persons, where external influences could challenge the impartiality and integrity of investigations.

He said: “ICPC personnel face security risks, especially during high-stake investigations, making it critical to provide them with adequate security measures similar to those granted to other agencies.”

He highlighted the commission’s achievements in strengthening its capabilities in the fight against corruption and advancing policy research, despite limited budgetary resources and reliance on international donor support.

“Currently, we have 21 state offices, but they are severely understaffed and under-resourced, which affects our efficiency nationwide,” he said. Reeling out assets and cash recovered within the period by the commission, Aliyu said: “In 2023, the ICPC received 1,187 petitions, assigned 275 cases for investigation, filed 63 cases in court, and secured 18 convictions.