ICPC Strengthens Ties with Disability Community to Combat Corruption, Promote Inclusion

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has pledged to deepen its collaboration with Nigeria’s disability community to fight corruption, combat discrimination, and promote equal opportunities.

Speaking at a strategic partnership meeting with the Pioneers Ad Hoc Consortium of Nigeria’s Disability Civil Rights Movement in Abuja, ICPC Secretary Clifford Oparaodu, representing Chairman Musa Adamu Aliyu, SAN, affirmed the Commission’s inclusive hiring policy, noting that it currently employs persons with disabilities.

“ICPC does not discriminate in recruitment or operations. We treat every verifiable petition on its merit, irrespective of the petitioner’s background or vulnerability,” Oparaodu said.

He welcomed the consortium’s proposals, highlighting opportunities for joint efforts such as investigating corruption in disability-focused institutions, improving whistleblower engagement, and enhancing accessibility.

Ellen Thompson, co-founder and chairperson of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), said the community faces systemic neglect, structural barriers, and corruption. While commending the ICPC’s professionalism and compassion in pursuing justice, she called for more concrete measures to ensure dignity, protection, and fairness for persons with disabilities.

Thompson urged the creation of a Department of Veteran Affairs to address the welfare of law enforcement personnel and people with disabilities, covering timely wage payments, healthcare access, and adequate protection. She also recommended appointing a dedicated disability desk officer, introducing specialized training, auditing donor funds for disability projects, and ensuring inclusive policymaking.

The association submitted a formal petition and proposed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to formalize the partnership.

Concluding the meeting, the ICPC reaffirmed its readiness to act on any verified petition within its mandate. “We are excited about the possibilities of this partnership and are determined to make sure it delivers real results for the disability community,” Oparaodu said.