The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences (ICPC) is set to partner a Non-Governmental Organisation, Connected Development (CODE), to ensure that funds channeled towards constituency projects are appropriately utilized.
ICPC Chairman, Professor Bolaji Owasanoye, who received CODE delegates, led by Hamzat Lawal, in his Office in Abuja, stated that his administration was determined to track constituency projects especially in the Local Government Areas (LGAs) to combat corruption in the country.
Implementation of constituency projects is one of the ways by which we can ensure that what the Presidency desires to do connects with the people. Every year, funds are budgeted for constituency projects, yet, people at the grassroots especially, are not beneficiaries,he added.
CODE’s Chief Executive, Hamzat Lawal says the purpose of the visit was to establish collaboration with the Commission in advocating for transparency, accountability and good governance.
Lawal added that constituency tracking ensures funds are properly utilized and meet the needs and aspiration of the Nigerian people, although these funds are usually siphoned, marginalizing the Nigerian people and denying them access to their rights.
According to him, “Exploring collaboration with the ICPC is a strategic move to collectively combat corruption, illicit financial flows and track to completion, development projects in rural areas so people can have access to portable drinking water, standard healthcare and even primary education.
ICPC is also partnering with CODE on mobilizing the youth, through CODEs Follow The Money University Campus Tour, on an anti-corruption movement where young people are sensitized on good governance and the movement to end corruption in Nigeria.
The ICPC Chairman, commended CODE on winning the UN SDG 2019 Mobilizer Award and for its passion in fighting corruption and holding government representatives and authorities accountable.
The Commission pledged support to CODEs FTM initiative.
