The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) on Tuesday, March 10th, partnered with the pro-democracy group, Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD), to enhance the forensic capacity of its investigators.
The partnership aims to equip ICPC personnel with modern investigative techniques and evidence-handling skills necessary to tackle increasingly sophisticated corruption and financial crimes.
The collaboration was formalized through a two-day capacity-building workshop in Abuja, themed Harnessing Forensic Capabilities in the Investigation of Corrupt Practices and Financial Frauds.
ICPC secretary, Okwudiri Oparaodu, emphasized that forensic investigation is no longer optional but a vital component of effective law enforcement, noting that any lapse in the forensic process could undermine months of investigative work and compromise cases in court.
He urged participants to actively engage with the training, stressing that the knowledge acquired should be promptly applied in ICPC operations to ensure investigations are credible, verifiable, and legally defensible.
Oparaodu further commended the CDD for sponsoring the workshop and for its inclusive approach, involving both operational and administrative personnel.
He noted that such cross-cutting capacity building would foster a proper understanding of forensic applications across the commission’s value chain, strengthening ICPC’s mandate to combat corruption and safeguard public resources.
The head of ICPC’s external cooperation unit, Ahmed Abdul, encouraged the participants to maximize the opportunity to refine their professional skills, emphasizing that practical application of the training would add tangible value to the commission’s operations.
Representing the CDD, Titilayo Olaniyan described the initiative as timely, given the growing complexity and transnational nature of corruption and financial crimes.
She added that the workshop formed part of a broader strategy by the CDD to promote good governance and the rule of law, commending the ICPC leadership for its continued dedication to safeguarding public resources and promoting a culture of integrity within the Nigerian public service.
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