The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has pledged to strengthen its partnership with Nigeria’s disability community to combat corruption, dismantle discrimination, and promote equal opportunities.
This commitment was reaffirmed during a strategic meeting in Abuja with the Pioneers Ad Hoc Consortium of Nigeria’s Disability Civil Rights Movement. Representing ICPC Chairman Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu, SAN, the Commission’s Secretary, Mr. Clifford Oparaodu, stressed that the agency operates an inclusive recruitment policy and already employs persons with disabilities.
“ICPC does not discriminate in recruitment or operations. Every verifiable petition is treated on its merit, regardless of the petitioner’s background or vulnerability,” Oparaodu stated.
He welcomed the consortium’s proposals and confirmed ICPC’s readiness to jointly address corruption in disability-focused institutions, enhance whistleblower engagement, and improve accessibility.
Omotunde Ellen Thompson, Co-Founder and Chairperson of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), outlined persistent challenges faced by the community, including corruption, systemic neglect, and structural barriers.
She praised ICPC’s professionalism and empathy, noting its support during legal proceedings, but urged greater action to ensure dignity, protection, and fairness for persons with disabilities.
Thompson called for the creation of a Department of Veteran Affairs to cater to the welfare of law enforcement officers and persons with disabilities, alongside timely salary payments, improved healthcare, and better security measures.
Her proposals also included appointing a dedicated desk officer for disability issues, 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 cement the partnership. “We are excited about the possibilities of this collaboration and determined to deliver real results for the disability community,” Thompson concluded.
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