The Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Dr. Musa Aliyu (SAN), has raised a serious alarm over widespread corruption within Nigeria’s local government system.
Speaking at an interactive forum with the National Anti-Corruption Coalition (NACC) in Abuja on Wednesday, Aliyu described the grassroots level of government as fertile ground for corrupt practices. The forum, held in hybrid format, focused on the theme: “Accountability and Corruption Prevention in Local Government Administration.”
According to Aliyu, local governments — considered the closest tier of government to the people — have failed in delivering the essential services they were created for due to deep-rooted corruption.
“It is at this level that the daily realities of our citizens are shaped, where services like primary healthcare, basic education, sanitation, and rural infrastructure should be delivered,” he said. “But unfortunately, it is also where the tentacles of corruption have spread the most.”
He highlighted common issues such as the diversion of public funds, ghost worker scams, inflated contracts, and poor use of internally generated revenues as key examples of how corruption is crippling grassroots development.
“This betrayal of public trust not only hinders progress but also erodes confidence in governance and institutions,” the ICPC chairman said.
Aliyu emphasized that the ICPC recognizes the critical role a transparent and accountable local government plays in national development. He therefore called on Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), community members, and stakeholders to work together in tackling the problem.
“You are the eyes and ears of the people,” he said, addressing the NACC members. “Your advocacy, public awareness efforts, and accountability campaigns are key in this fight.”
He also stressed the need for practical reforms, including strengthening financial transparency, internal control mechanisms, and audit systems at the local government level. Aliyu advocated for better citizen involvement in budget monitoring and project oversight to help detect and prevent corrupt practices.
According to him, educating citizens about their rights and responsibilities is important in building a culture where corruption is openly resisted.
While acknowledging the challenges local officials face, including lack of training and political pressures, Aliyu noted that integrity must be upheld at all times.
“This fight is not a one-time campaign. It requires constant effort, commitment, and collaboration,” he said. “Fixing corruption at the grassroots will ripple upward, helping Nigeria grow into a fairer and more prosperous nation.”
Aliyu’s call comes amid ongoing national concerns about the poor performance of local councils and increasing pressure on government to ensure accountability in public spending.
