The Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Dr Musa Aliyu, has urged Nigerians not to blame political elites alone for corruption, emphasizing the need for public self-reflection.
Speaking at a two-day retreat for ICPC board and management staff in Calabar, Aliyu described corruption as a societal issue involving both the elite and the general public.
“We keep on having this problem in Nigeria because once corruption is less risky and largely beneficial, it will continue to happen,” he said. “If the people know that once they are caught, they will be punished, it will discourage them from engaging in corruption like it is practiced in nations like China.”
He noted that while the elites often bear the brunt of the blame due to their leadership roles, the ICPC has faced no political interference in its anti-corruption drive. He also highlighted the commission’s 2024 global strides and its 2025 launch of a local government prevention program.