By Muhammad Mamman
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has urged Nigerians to actively monitor and investigate projects sited within their communities, as part of efforts to strengthen transparency and curb corruption in public service delivery.
The anti-corruption agency said citizens have a critical role to play in ensuring that government-funded projects are executed according to specifications and for the benefit of the people.
Speaking during a public engagement, ICPC officials encouraged residents across the country to demand accountability from contractors and relevant authorities, particularly on projects funded through constituency allocations and other public intervention programmes.
According to the commission, community members are often the first to notice abandoned, poorly executed or non-existent projects, making them key stakeholders in the fight against corruption.
“Citizens must take ownership of projects domiciled in their communities. If you see something that is not right, speak up and report it,” the commission stated, reiterating its commitment to protecting whistleblowers and acting on credible reports.
The ICPC added that public vigilance would not only deter mismanagement of funds but also ensure that infrastructure projects such as schools, health centres, roads and water facilities are delivered to required standards.
Nigeria has long grappled with concerns over abandoned and substandard projects, with anti-corruption agencies repeatedly identifying procurement irregularities and diversion of public funds as major challenges.
The commission said it would continue to partner with civil society organisations, traditional institutions and community leaders to deepen public awareness and promote grassroots oversight of government spending.
Analysts say the renewed call for citizen participation reflects growing recognition that institutional enforcement alone may not be sufficient to tackle entrenched corruption, especially at the local level.
The ICPC maintained that sustained collaboration between citizens and anti-graft agencies would help restore trust in public institutions and improve service delivery nationwide.
