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From Ndubuisi Orji, Abuja
The House of Representatives has intensified efforts to amend the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) Act 2024, Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) and Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT) Act.
The Chairman, House Committee on Anti-Corruption, Moshood Akiolu, while speaking at a public hearing organised on the three bills, said the proposed amendment is necessary to block identified gaps in the extant laws.
Akiolu explained that there are challenges in the existing legal framework which have inhibited their effectiveness and militated against the fight against corruption.
The lawmaker, who stated that corruption is inimical to development, weakens institutions and erodes public trust, noted that strengthening the laws establishing the anti-graft agencies is crucial in fighting corruption and restoring trust in government.
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He said: “The Code of Conduct Bureau, Code of Conduct Tribunal, and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission have long been frontline institutions in Nigeria’s efforts to promote public integrity and accountability.
“However, over time, the legal framework governing these bodies has encountered various challenges that have hindered the effectiveness of their operations and, by extension, the fight against corruption.
“These bills to amend the Acts are a necessary and timely response aimed at addressing identified gaps and weaknesses. Our objectives include enhancing the operational independence of these institutions, improving their investigative and adjudicatory powers, and ensuring that due process and fair hearing are respected in the handling of cases involving public officers.”
