Welcome Address by Dr Musa Adamu Aliyu, SAN
The conference opened with a compelling welcome address from Dr Musa Adamu Aliyu, SAN, Chairman of ICPC. Dr Aliyu emphasized the urgency of addressing corruption and the critical role of state attorneys general in this mission. He highlighted the conference’s objective to strengthen ICPC’s capacity for corruption prevention at all levels, particularly at the sub-national level. His address set a tone of collective responsibility and collaborative effort, stressing the importance of a unified approach to tackling corruption across Nigeria.
A Gathering of Leaders and Experts
The event, titled _"Building a Unified Front Against Corruption in Nigeria,"_ marked a collective determination to address one of Nigeria’s most pressing challenges. The conference featured goodwill messages from prominent figures including Dr. Ben Uruchi Odoh, Chairman of the Body of States Attorneys General, and Mazi Afam Osigwe (SAN), President of the Nigerian Bar Association. The conference also included a robust keynote address by Chief Kanu Agabi, SAN, former Attorney General of Nigeria.
In his address, Chief Agabi underscored the essential role of state attorneys general as agents of anti-corruption, emphasizing their duty to offer honest advisory to governors, protect citizens from arbitrary actions, and prosecute corruption effectively. He called for a return to cultural values and a strict adherence to legal responsibilities to combat corruption.
Panel Discussions and Insights
The conference featured a dynamic panel discussion moderated by Moyosore Onibanjo, SAN, former Attorney General of Lagos State. Panelists included Mr. Ekpo Nta, former ICPC Chairman; Prof. Mohammed Tabiu (SAN) of Bayero University, Kano; Hauwa Abubakar, Attorney General of Borno State; and Prof. Abdulkareem Kana (SAN designate) of Nasarawa State University. The discussion provided a platform for exploring various strategies to combat corruption, highlighting the necessity for collaboration and the effective implementation of anti-corruption measures.
General Issues and Resolutions
Several critical issues were addressed during the conference. It was recognized that state attorneys general are crucial gatekeepers of justice, and their cooperation with ICPC is vital for dismantling corruption and ensuring a high level of integrity within Nigeria’s justice system. The need for continuous collaboration among anti-corruption stakeholders and the importance of sharing insights from research and practical experiences were emphasized.
The conference resolutions focused on practical steps to enhance anti-corruption efforts. Recommendations included the development of a digital tool for tracking local government funds, strengthening the criminal justice system, creating awareness among citizens, and improving the capacity of anti-corruption agencies through training and technology.
A Call to Action
The communique concluded with a call for action, urging state attorneys general to see themselves as partners in the anti-corruption fight, to provide robust advice to their governors, and to act as a bridge between citizens and government. The conference also advocated for involving lawyers in procurement processes and developing mechanisms to ensure the effective implementation of the recommendations.
As the conference drew to a close, there was a shared sense of resolve to transform the strategies discussed into tangible actions. The commitment to building a unified front against corruption reflects a collective determination to create a Nigeria where integrity and justice prevail.
Chikodiri Igwe Eze,
PRO, Ebonyi State Ministry of Justice & Research Assistant to Honourable Attorney General, Ebonyi State
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