ICPC Spearheads South East Engagement for National Ethics and Integrity
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has embarked on a vital mission to promote ethics and integrity at the national level, starting with a meaningful dialogue in the South East region. This initiative revolves around the implementation of the National Ethics and Integrity Policy (NEIP), designed to catalyze behavioral change and foster a transformative shift on a national scale.
During a sensitization workshop held in Enugu, Prof. Bolaji Owasanoye, the National Chairman of ICPC, emphasized the imperative nature of this implementation. He highlighted that the traditional enforcement approach to combatting corruption, based solely on law and order, is insufficient to eradicate this deeply entrenched societal issue.
Stakeholders from diverse sectors, including the public, private, civil society organizations, media, religious, and traditional institutions, came together to engage in this critical dialogue. Owasanoye underscored that, given the current challenges facing the nation, achieving the desired societal changes hinges on instigating behavioral change.
Owasanoye stated, “The ideal behavior for citizens is that they should respect the laws of the land, keep their word, do their duty with diligence, respect and value other human beings, not get involved in stealing from the government, cheating others, or any form of deception.”
However, he acknowledged that the reality often falls short of this ideal. Therefore, he stressed the need for intentional efforts to transform negative behaviors through the cultivation of positive values.
This engagement marks a pivotal moment in ICPC’s unwavering commitment to fostering a culture of ethics and integrity to effectively combat corruption throughout Nigeria.
