Nigeria: Financial Autonomy - ICPC to Begin Monitoring Use of Local Government Funds

The Accountability and Corruption Prevention Programme (ACPP-LG) aims to stop embezzlement of public funds.

The federal government is finalizing plans to send funds directly to Nigeria's 774 local governments. On Thursday, the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) announced it will monitor how these funds are used. This announcement came during the launch of a new initiative in Abuja.

The ACPP-LG project seeks to ensure financial transparency and equal development across the country.

ICPC chairperson Musa Aliyu emphasized the importance of local governments in providing essential services. He noted that this initiative will help detect and prevent misuse of public funds. Over 60 percent of corruption cases at the local level involve diverted funds for development projects.

Aliyu stated that direct fund disbursement removes state interference. This creates an opportunity for governance reform.

As an anti-corruption agency, ICPC is committed to enforcing compliance with laws. They aim to foster transparency, accountability, and efficiency in local governance.

At the event, Minister of Justice Lateef Fagbemi spoke about a recent Supreme Court ruling. This ruling affirms financial autonomy for local governments, reducing state interference. It enhances their ability to deliver essential services effectively.

Fagbemi stressed that this judgement supports constitutional principles and promotes sustainable development nationwide. The federal government is dedicated to transparency and good governance at all levels through its National Anti-Corruption Strategy.

Kayode Akiolu, chairperson of the House Committee on Anti-Corruption, praised the initiative's potential impact on corruption efforts. He noted that local governments are vital as they are closest to citizens.

Despite years of reforms, local governments still struggle with their mandates in rural areas. Corruption remains a major obstacle to their development potential.

Emmanuel Udende, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Anti-Corruption, expressed lawmakers' commitment to promoting accountability and transparency. The Senate Committee will support policies ensuring responsible management of public funds for real community development.

Local government is Nigeria's third tier of government and closest to grassroots citizens. However, many states have crippled them by seizing federal allocations and releasing funds only piecemeal.