ICPC vows not to abandon high-profile cases over blackmail

File photo: ICPC Headquarters, Abuja

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission has vowed to pursue ongoing corruption investigations involving politically exposed persons without fear or favour, despite an alleged plot to intimidate the commission through misinformation and blackmail.

The commission said it had received credible intelligence indicating that some individuals were planning a misinformation and blackmail campaign to discredit its operations and undermine public confidence in its anti-corruption activities.

It linked the alleged plot to ongoing investigations into suspected fake agencies and other high-profile cases involving politically exposed persons.

In a statement issued on Friday by its spokesperson, J. Okor Odey, the ICPC said it would not be distracted or intimidated from carrying out its statutory responsibilities.

“The Commission wishes to state unequivocally that it has nothing to hide and will continue to discharge its statutory responsibilities professionally, independently and without fear or favour,” the statement read.

It added that all ongoing investigations would be pursued diligently and vigorously in accordance with due process and the rule of law.

Related News

• ICPC recovers N5.3bn LG funds
• ICPC recovers N5.3bn from LG accounts
• Abia warns LG mayors against diverting public funds

“The Commission will neither be intimidated nor distracted by blackmail, deliberate falsehoods or attempts to undermine its legitimate anti-corruption mandate,” it said.

The commission stressed that no individual or group, irrespective of political, social or economic status, would be allowed to influence the outcome of lawful investigations.

While acknowledging the importance of public scrutiny and constructive criticism, the ICPC warned against attempts to frustrate investigations or intimidate its officials.

“While the Commission welcomes legitimate scrutiny and constructive criticism, it will not succumb to campaigns designed to frustrate credible investigations or intimidate its officers in the lawful performance of their duties,” the statement added.

The anti-graft agency reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the public interest, pursuing ongoing cases and strengthening accountability in the country.

However, the commission did not identify the individuals or groups allegedly behind the planned misinformation and blackmail campaign or provide further details of the investigations said to have triggered the alleged plot.