Dr. Musa Aliyu, Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), announced on Thursday that the commission will enforce the Supreme Court’s ruling on local government autonomy with full commitment.
Speaking at a one-day National Anti-Corruption Coalition (NACC) Hybrid Interactive Forum in Abuja, Aliyu, who is also a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), emphasized the importance of adhering to the court’s decision. On July 11, the Supreme Court granted financial autonomy to the 774 local government areas (LGAs) across Nigeria.
Aliyu issued a stern warning to those attempting to undermine the ruling, urging them to review his track record. He assured that the ICPC will ensure strict compliance with the Supreme Court’s judgment, regardless of opposition or challenges.
He said: “Local governments must be governed by democratically elected people from the grassroots.
“You need to ensure that those that are going to be elected are people that have us in their mind; people that will discharge their responsibilities effectively in a responsible way.
“Not people that will divert public funds, and ICPC, as a commission, we will ensure that we impose compliance no matter what.”
He said the constitution was clear on the matter, adding that the commission would ensure implementation to the letter.
”We have to protect the integrity of our courts. I will not stand by and watch some people dismantle it. Not during my time.
“They can do it if I am not here, but not while I am here. I am not scared. I am determined.
”I will protect the integrity of the court. I will lead the fight. I put my trust in God. Nobody can do anything to me except God allows it,” he added.
