The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has reaffirmed its commitment to partnering with the Federal Ministry of Power to promote transparency, accountability, and integrity in the nation’s power sector.
This assurance was given by the Secretary to the Commission, Mr Clifford Okwudili Oparaodu, DSSRS, when he received the Minister of Power, Mr Joseph Olasunkanmi Tegbe. and top executives of the Ministry on a courtesy and familiarisation visit to the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja on Monday.
Speaking during the visit, the Minister described the ICPC as one of the key institutions of government with which the Ministry must build a strong working relationship to enhance accountability in the power sector.
According to him, the Ministry requires the Commission’s guidance, support and partnership in addressing challenges confronting the sector, particularly as it strives to improve electricity generation and service delivery.
He disclosed that about 30 per cent of the challenges facing the power sector stem from vandalism, noting that the Ministry has several cases requiring the Commission’s guidance in navigating the appropriate anti-corruption and enforcement processes.
The Minister further stated that the Ministry has recorded improvements in electricity generation, with power output now exceeding 5,000 megawatts, adding that sustained collaboration with institutions such as the ICPC would help consolidate the gains already achieved.
“We need people like you with the requisite experience to support us, and we look forward to forging a sustainable and long-term relationship with the Commission,” he said.
Responding, the Secretary to the Commission congratulated the Minister on his appointment and appreciated him and his delegation for identifying the ICPC as a strategic partner in the quest to reposition the power sector.
Mr. Oparaodu acknowledged the persistent electricity challenges facing the country, expressing optimism that improved power supply would stimulate industrial growth, create more employment opportunities and boost national economic development.
He explained that the ICPC’s tripartite mandate of enforcement, prevention and public education places the Commission in a strategic position to collaborate with the Ministry of Power across all three areas.
He assured the delegation that, through its enforcement mandate, the Commission would support the Ministry in ensuring that contractors and other stakeholders handling government resources are held accountable and prevented from defrauding the government.
The meeting ended with both institutions expressing their commitment to strengthening collaboration towards entrenching transparency, safeguarding public resources and improving service delivery in Nigeria’s power sector.
