ICPC vows to sanction corrupt state legislators 

By Doris Isreal Ijeoma The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has pledged to address corruption among members of state Houses of Assembly. Musa Aliyu, the ICPC Chairman, made this statement on Tuesday in Abuja during the opening of a three-day workshop for Jigawa State legislators. The workshop, titled “Transparency and Accountability: Effective Legislative Tools Towards Successful Mandate Delivery,” focused on enhancing legislative effectiveness. Aliyu expressed concern about widespread corruption in the country and stressed the need for legislators to uphold integrity in all aspects of their roles.  He assured that the ICPC is committed to working with state legislatures to combat corruption effectively. “We are prepared to collaborate with the state legislatures to advance our fight against corruption, as we have with other branches and levels of government,” Aliyu said. “However, we will not hesitate to take decisive action when necessary.” He emphasized that the ICPC would continue to fulfill its mandate of enforcement, prevention, public education, and mass mobilization within the bounds of the law. Aliyu also highlighted the importance of prioritizing national interest over personal or collective interests, as demonstrated by President Bola Tinubu’s administration. “The principle of separation of powers must be upheld; any encroachment on the functions of the executive or judiciary undermines democracy and good governance,” Aliyu stated.  He added that the legislature has a crucial role in identifying waste, inefficiency, corruption, and mismanagement of public resources. Effective execution of these functions requires transparency and accountability, underscoring the significance of the workshop.

Kwara Governor Vows To Get Justice For Slain Monarch

Kwara State Governor, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic death of Peter Aremu, the Onikoro of Koro-Ekiti in Ekiti LGA of Kwara state.  The traditional ruler was brutally killed during a home invasion by gunmen on Thursday, who also abducted his wife and two others. In a statement issued by Rafiu Ajakaye, the chief press secretary to the governor, Abdulrazaq denounced the incident as “reckless, shocking, and abominable.” The governor has urged security operatives to swiftly track down the perpetrators, rescue the abducted individuals, and ensure justice is served. “We will certainly get the perpetrators and ensure that this is their last crime against humanity,” Governor Abdulrazaq vowed.  “My profound condolences go to the people of Koro. Our hearts are broken, and we stand by them at this time and always.” This tragic event further compounds the unsettling pattern of attacks on traditional rulers, echoing the broader security challenges facing the nation. Just days ago, on January 29, two traditional rulers fell victim to suspected kidnappers in Ekiti state, heightening concerns about the safety of community leaders.