On Wednesday, the Resource Center for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED) held a roundtable discussion at Aminu Kano Centre for Democratic Studies (Mambayya House), Gwammaja, Kano State.
The event, aimed at enhancing transparency and accountability in constituency projects, brought together anti-graft agencies, civic organizations, and community representatives to promote grassroots-driven anti-corruption efforts.
Omoniyi Adeoye, CHRICED’s Senior Programs Officer, highlighted the organization’s strides in empowering citizens to track constituency projects.
“People now understand that constituency funds are not gifts from their representatives. They know how to monitor projects and demand accountability at the local level,” he said.
Adeoye also noted that CHRICED has created a vital communication link between grassroots communities and anti-graft agencies like the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), and Kano Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission (PCACC).
He emphasized the positive outcomes of this collaboration, citing instances where constituency projects were successfully tracked, and corrupt practices addressed.
“Let’s continue working together to fight corruption in Kano and beyond,” he urged.
Furera Isiyaka, CHRICED’s Communications Officer, encouraged participants to establish sustainable, community-led initiatives for holding public officials accountable.
“As the project concludes, it’s crucial that communities independently foster change by tracking constituency projects, exposing wrongdoing, and seeking justice through the proper channels,” she said.
Representing the EFCC’s Kano Zonal Office, Kabir Mohammed underscored the importance of timely reporting of corruption at the grassroots.
He stated that CHRICED’s initiative has not only raised awareness but has also empowered communities to take an active role in ensuring transparency and good governance in Nigeria.
“We can’t be everywhere at once, so we need you to report corrupt practices promptly. We promise to act swiftly,” he assured.
Mohammed also advised against confrontational approaches, urging citizens to seek accountability diplomatically.
Sani Tukur, Assistant Chief Superintendent of the ICPC, revealed that most recovered funds from corrupt officials are remitted to the federal government’s recovery account.
He commended the resilience of grassroots communities in the anti-corruption fight.
“Don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We are ready to support you in tracking projects, obtaining necessary documents, and ensuring accountability,” he pledged.
The roundtable concluded with a call for continued vigilance and collaboration among all stakeholders in the fight against corruption.
