The Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) has stressed the need for cooperation with other anti-corruption agencies to address the rising issue of corruption in Nigeria. This call was made by Murtala Kankia, the Acting Chairman of the CCB, during the inauguration of the new Proceeds of Crimes Recovery and Management Department in Abuja on Tuesday.
Kankia highlighted that collaboration with other agencies is crucial to strengthening current anti-corruption frameworks and developing innovative strategies. He explained that the newly launched department is aimed at creating a streamlined system for the recovery, management, and transparent disposal of assets.
Recalling the signing of the Proceeds of Crime (Recovery and Management) Act 2022 by former President Muhammadu Buhari on May 12, 2022, Kankia acknowledged that while the Act is a step forward, challenges persist in the effective management of recovered assets. These include issues such as inadequate funding, manpower shortages, and a lack of office space.
Despite these setbacks, Kankia noted successes in prosecuting defaulters, sharing intelligence with sister agencies, and digitising the asset declaration process. However, he stressed that the effectiveness of the Proceeds of Crime Act depends on the government’s political will to implement it transparently and hold public officials accountable.
Neda Imasuen, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct, and Public Petitions, who also chaired the event, described corruption as a long-standing obstacle undermining governance and depriving the nation of resources. He praised the establishment of the new department as a bold move in Nigeria’s anti-corruption campaign.
Imasuen explained that the department would play a critical role in identifying, recovering, and managing illicitly obtained assets, ultimately ensuring that these resources benefit the public. He urged the department to uphold transparency and efficiency in its operations and encouraged collaboration with relevant agencies both within and outside Nigeria to enhance asset recovery efforts.
Musa Adamu, Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), also spoke at the event, underscoring the importance of the CCB’s asset declaration forms in monitoring public officials and combating corruption. Adamu called for stronger partnerships between Nigeria’s anti-corruption agencies and advocated for regional cooperation to recover hidden assets across Africa.
Credit: NAN (Text Excluding Headline)
