The Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Dr. Musa Aliyu (SAN), says corruption in Nigeria goes beyond stealing public funds, describing it as any act that deviates from due process or the rule of law.
Speaking in Abuja at the 2025 National Summit of the Association of Chairmen of Local Government Service Commissions, Aliyu represented by his aide, Zainab Nass said corruption exists in every part of society, not just government.
“Corruption is not just about stealing money; it is anything that deviates from the rule. It is corruption not to follow due process,” he stated.
He urged Nigerians to uphold integrity and accountability, warning that misconduct such as financial mismanagement, falsified records, and abuse of office now attracts serious legal consequences.
Aliyu recalled that earlier campaigns like the Ethical Revolution and MAMSER failed due to weak enforcement, but said the ICPC has since strengthened anti-corruption efforts through enforcement, prevention, and education.
He also praised the 2024 Supreme Court ruling restoring elected local councils, calling it “a new dawn for grassroots governance.”
“We are now in the era of asset recovery taking back what was taken,” he said, urging local officials to ensure public funds truly serve the people.