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By Isaac Aregbesola
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) have joined forces to combat corruption in the country.
The ICPC Chairman, Dr Musa Aliyu, said this at a one-day workshop on effective collaboration in corruption prevention.
The workshop had the theme: “The power of the pen in the fight against corruption”.
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The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the workshop brought together stakeholders from the information and public relations sector to discuss strategies for combating corruption
Aliyu, at the workshop organised with the support of MacArtur Foundation, emphasised the importance of collective effort in tackling corruption.
According to him, corruption is a complex, deeply entrenched challenge in our society, requiring a multifaceted approach.
He said that the ICPC was dedicated to fulfilling its mandate under the law.
”Information is one of our most potent tools, and this is where the media becomes indispensable.
”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,” he said.
He said that the ICPC had long valued its collaboration with the media, partnering on initiatives such as investigative training, radio and television programmes, and tracking anti-corruption projects.
He said that the commission also had a Constituency 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,” he said.
He said that the recent Supreme Court decision granting financial autonomy to local governments presented new opportunities to collaborate in promoting transparency and accountability at the grassroots level.
The NUJ President, Chris Isiguzo, pledged the union’s support for the ICPC’s efforts.
According to Isiguzo, journalists have a critical role to play in exposing corruption and promoting accountability.
”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.
”Let us wield the power of the pen to bring about the Nigeria that we all deserve, a nation free from the shackles of corruption, where justice and fairness reign supreme,” he said.
He stressed the need for security and protection of Journalists in the discharge of their duty.
”While our role in combating corruption is crucial, we cannot ignore the inherent dangers that come with it.
”The safety and security of journalists must be a top priority if we are to continue this essential work,” he said. (NAN)
Edited by Kadiri Abdulrahman
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