EU-ROLAC, others seek technology, community engagement in anti-corruption efforts

Stakeholders have stressed the need to use technology and community engagement to combat corruption.

This was disclosed at a conference organised by the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA) in collaboration with the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) and supported by the European Union Funded Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (EU-RoLAC).

Speaking at a conference at EU-ROLAC conference held in Kano State, Presiding Justice of the Court of Appeal, Sokoto Division, Justice Mohammed Shaibu emphasized the need for a collective and collaborative effort in the fight against corruption in Nigeria.

Justice Shuaibu stressed that corruption is a multifaceted issue that requires innovative approaches to tackle its challenges.

“Fighting corruption is not a one-man battle; it requires a collective and collaborative effort.”

He also addressed the misuse of ex parte orders by judges, describing it as a significant obstacle to the fight against corruption.

Justice Shuaibu urged public servants to prioritise integrity and the public interest in their duties, stating that eliminating dishonesty within institutions is essential for fostering a corruption-free society.

In a keynote address, Dr. Emmanuel Uche, Project Manager, Anti-Corruption of the RoLAC Programme, stressed the importance of leveraging technology and community engagement to combat corruption.

“The fight against corruption is not a romance; it is a battle that demands every resource we can muster.

According to him, integrating community-driven efforts into anti-corruption initiatives fosters accountability at all levels of governance.

He stressed the need for strategic, resource-intensive efforts that combine technological innovations with grassroots engagement to develop long-term solutions to corruption.