The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has issued a stern warning that it will take action against any official or individual who defies the Supreme Court’s ruling on local government autonomy. This follows the Supreme Court’s landmark judgment on July 11, 2024, which affirmed the financial independence of Nigeria’s 774 Local Government Councils.
ICPC Chairman Musa Adamu Aliyu (SAN) emphasized during the 6th Annual General Assembly of the Network of Anti-Corruption Institutions in West Africa (NACIWA) that the Commission is committed to ensuring compliance with the ruling. He stressed that local governments must remain politically independent and that any state-level official violating this decision would be held accountable for gross misconduct and abuse of office.
Aliyu further highlighted the ICPC’s dedication to reducing corruption and holding key stakeholders accountable, stating that a summit will be held in September to discuss collaborative efforts to uphold local government autonomy. The ICPC’s commitment underscores the importance of adhering to the Supreme Court’s ruling and maintaining the integrity of local governance in Nigeria.