The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has called on staff of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to steer clear of corrupt practices and uphold integrity in public service.
Speaking during a quarterly anti-corruption sensitization workshop at the NDDC headquarters in Port Harcourt, the ICPC Commissioner for Rivers and Bayelsa States, Mrs. Ekere Usiere, emphasized the importance of periodic awareness campaigns to curb corruption within the Commission.
She highlighted the NDDC’s critical role as an interventionist agency and commended its Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU) for organizing the workshop themed “Infractions/Offences in Anti-Graft Laws; Preventive Measures.”
NDDC Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, represented by Dr. James Fole, Director III, Admin and Human Resources, reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to promoting transparency and accountability. He urged staff to remain upright and diligent in their duties.
“Avoid any corrupt activities, work diligently, and be upright,” he advised.
Ogbuku added that the NDDC’s leadership is determined to uphold ethical standards and instill strong values across all levels of the Commission.
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In his presentation, Dr. Evans Peters, Head of the ICPC Legal Department in Rivers State, encouraged the NDDC to empower its ACTU to serve as the moral compass of the organization.
He advocated for regular review of procedures vulnerable to corruption and the establishment of a comprehensive code of ethics, including clear anti-corruption guidelines.
Peters warned that acts such as bribery, falsifying records, obstructing investigations, awarding contracts without budgetary provisions, and conspiracy are criminal offenses under anti-graft laws.
“Proceeds from crime anything beyond legitimate income can be confiscated by the government, and the offender still prosecuted,” he stated.
Also speaking, NDDC Director of Legal Services, Barrister Victor Arenyeka, praised staff for participating in the workshop and urged them to remain committed to accountability and ethical conduct in their work.
