Assessment of the Effectives of Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (Icpc) In Combating Corruption In Nigeria

ABSTRACT

This study is an assessment of the effectiveness of Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (JCPC) in combating corruption in the public service of Nigeria through the instrument of Corrupt Practices and Other Offences Act 2000. The theoretical frame work adopted in this study is the Institutional Theory which allows for assessment of the Commission with reference to its mandate and enviromnent. The study utilised both primary and secondary data. Secondary data were generated through review of literature relevant to the study including textbooks, official gazettes, policy documents, circulars, ICPC digests, newsletters, annual reports, seminar papers and strategy documents. Primary data were sourced through a combination of questionnaire and interview instruments. The data were analysed using simple percentage, bar charts, pie charts and Analysis of Variance (Anova). Analysis of findings revealed that ICPC 's preventive, enforcement, and public education mechanisms for combating corruption in the public service are effective to a high extent. On the other hand, it was discovered that the ICPC Act, political inte1ference and citizens open support for corrupt individuals, hinders an effective fight against corruption by ICPC despite the progress made in the other areas. To enhance the fight against corruption in the public service of Nigeria therefore, the study recommends the strengthening of the ICPC establishment Act 2000, through amendments among others," strengthen the deterrent mechanisms, empower the Commission to initiate investigation into any perceived act of corruption without waiting for petitions from the public, making Federal High Courts the starting points of ICPC cases instead of States High Courts, as well as insulating the commission from political inte1ference. Jn addition, the fimding of the Commission should be from the consolidated revenue account of the federation so as to make it truly independent. Again, domesticating the Act in the fifth schedule of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, alongside other sister organisations like the Code of Conduct Bureau, Code of Conduct Tribunal and Public Complaint Commission. The ICPC on its part should solidify its collaboration with religious bodies, tribal unions and professional organisations to change the orientation of the citizenry and direct it towards abhorring all corrupt tendencies and ostracising corrupt individuals in the society.