ABUJA – The Chairman of Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu has disclosed that the “pen is a vital weapon in the fight against corruption” in the country.
Dr. Aliyu stated this at a One-Day Workshop, organized by the ICPC in collaboration with the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) with support from the MacArthur Foundation, on “Effective Collaboration In Corruption Prevention” which took place in, Abuja.
The ICPC Boss also revealed that their objective is to “mobilize citizens” for effective anti-corruption efforts, aligning with the pillars of the National Anti-Corruption Strategy (NACS) focused on engagement and ethical reorientation.
He said, “Recognizing the importance of communication in driving our action plan, we have developed a robust Communication Strategy and reviewed our four-year-old Communication Policy to ensure they are aligned with present national realities.
“At the ICPC, we understand the significant influence of the media in raising awareness, educating the public, and promoting accountability at both micro and macro levels. Given our core mandate and the various anti-corruption and corruption prevention initiatives we have introduced, we appreciate that the power of the pen is a vital weapon in our collective fight against corruption.”
“I also want to take this opportunity to appeal to all Nigerians to support public officials in their commitment to integrity. It is essential that we create an environment where ethical conduct is encouraged and celebrated. By fostering a culture of accountability and transparency, we can collectively strengthen our institutions and contribute to a corruption-free Nigeria.
“As we proceed with today’s workshop, I hope that the insights from our expert presentations and panel discussions will enhance journalists’ understanding of the ICPC’s mandates and lead to a formal platform for collaboration aimed at preventing corruption. The ICPC views the media as a vital partner and co-change agent in our collective mission to reshape mindsets for sustainable development. Together, we can drive meaningful change.”
This is as he stressed that the ICPC has aligned its Strategic Action Plan for 2024-2028 with the National Anti-Corruption Strategy (NACS).
According to him “A key objective of the ICPC’s 2024-2028 Strategic Action Plan (SAP) is to mobilize citizens for effective anti-corruption efforts, aligning with the pillars of the NACS focused on engagement and ethical reorientation.”
Dr. Aliyu while emphasizing on the power of the media noted that, “Information is one of our most potent tools, and this is where the media becomes indispensable.
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“The power of the press through investigative journalism, policy analysis, and online advocacy cannot be overstated. As we know, the media plays a pivotal role in shaping public opinion and driving accountability.
“Investigative journalism exposes corruption, holds public officials accountable, and facilitates transparency. The ICPC has long valued its collaboration with the media, partnering on initiatives such as investigative training, radio and television programs, and tracking anti-corruption projects, including the Constituency and Executive Projects Tracking Initiative.
“The media’s role in amplifying these efforts is critical to ensuring that public resources are utilised effectively and that projects meet quality specifications. The media can also serve as a platform for advocacy, using editorials, blogs, and opinion pieces to raise public awareness about corruption.”
Furthermore, he said the online campaigns via social media can mobilize public support for anti-corruption activities, while podcasts like their recently launched EthicsPod offer incisive discussions on ethics and integrity.
“The EthicsPod gives Nigerians a voice, allowing them to contribute ideas for promoting ethics, integrity, and the fight against corruption. You can find it on YouTube, Spotify, Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram @icpcnigeria,” he said.
Meanwhile, the NUJ President, Chief Chris Isiguzo in his remarks at the event said, “Today, we are gathered here as journalists from across the nation, united by a shared goal to explore the immense potential of the media as a force for positive change, especially in combating corruption.”
According to him, “Corruption remains one of the greatest impediments to Nigeria’s progress. It undermines development, widens inequality, and perpetuates a cycle of poverty and instability. As journalists, we hold the power to shine a light on these injustices, to expose the truth, and to advocate for the transparency and accountability that are the bedrock of any functioning democracy.”
The NUJ President however stated that, “Journalists are the eyes and ears of society. We are often the first to uncover and report on the underhand dealings that threaten the nation’s future.
The power of the pen is undeniable: it can expose corruption, challenge those in power, and empower citizens to demand accountability.
In the fight against corruption, our role is multi-faceted and indispensable,”
