Investigate any project domiciled in your community – ICPC tells Nigerians
ICPC Encourages Community Involvement in Local Projects
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has called on Nigerians to take ownership of projects executed in their communities. The commission emphasized that increased scrutiny would enhance project delivery and contractor accountability.
Mr. Okam Okuku, head of the ICPC’s Executive and Constituency Project Tracking Team in Akwa Ibom State, made these remarks during a four-day annual inspection exercise held on Tuesday. He urged residents to actively engage with their senators and House of Representatives members before the initiation of constituency projects, ensuring that local needs are prioritized.
“Constituency projects are funded through the national budget. Therefore, it is essential for citizens to monitor the types and quality of projects that their representatives bring to the community,” Okuku stated.
He elaborated that these projects are financed by taxpayer contributions. “If you pay taxes in Nigeria, you are benefitting from community constituency projects. These initiatives are not merely favors from elected officials; rather, representatives facilitate the allocation of federal resources to their regions.”
During the inspection, Okuku noted that approximately 25% of lapses were identified in the work carried out by contractors. He explained that the commission is tracking 71 projects this year, which include six primary healthcare initiatives. One visit to a health center in Ibesikpo Asutan revealed that promised solar installations had not been completed.
“We assessed three primary health centers yesterday. At one location, we expected to find solar panels and an inverter, but none were installed. In contrast, another facility had fully functional solar systems, and the third site had a solar-powered borehole,” Okuku reported.
He also highlighted issues with the distribution of deep freezers to communities lacking electricity. Okuku stressed that such initiatives should begin with a proper needs assessment. “The community should have been consulted before the distribution of freezers. Projects should align with local requirements, such as ensuring an electricity supply before providing deep freezers,” he said.
Okuku urged constituents to utilize their local constituency offices to voice their needs. “These offices should serve as platforms for citizens to communicate their priorities to their elected representatives. By doing so, projects can more effectively meet the actual needs of the community,” he concluded.
