ICPC partners Federal Polytechnic, Ukana in the fight against corruption
…Inaugurates Anti-Corruption & Transparency Unit on campus
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, ICPC says the war against corruption can only be fought and won through collective efforts, hence the need for all hands to be on deck in order to stamp the monster called, corruption out of the society.
This was the position canvassed over the weekend by the ICPC Resident Commissioner in Akwa Ibom State, Mr. Shola Shodippo during the inauguration of Anti-Corruption Transparency Unit, ACTU at the Federal Polytechnic, Ukana in Essien Udim local government area of Akwa Ibom State.
Mr. Shodippo who presented a lecture on “Preliminary Investigation ” during the inauguration, commended the Polytechnic for embracing the idea of establishing an Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit in the institution, noting that the exercise further confirms the readiness of the Federal Polytechnic to partner ICPC in the fighting corruption in the country.In his words,” the fight against corruption in Nigeria cannot be left for an individual or institution. Every responsible Nigerian must join the fight to salvage our dear country” he stressed.
The ICPC Commissioner explained that ACTU was an initiative of the Federal Government aimed at discouraging and exposing corrupt practices as well as entrenching transparency in public service. He remarked that the anti-corruption war championed by ICPC has led to the shutting down of illegally run tertiary institutions in the country, among others
While congratulating the individual members of the unit for being found worthy to serve ,he implored them not to use their position to witch -hunt, but rather enjoined them to work closely with the management of the Polytechnic, to promote discipline and accountability.
“Let me congratulate members of the unit who have been found worthy to serve. I implore you not to use your position to witch -hunt anyone but rather work with the management of the Polytechnic, to ensure discipline and accountability” he maintained.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, the Rector of the Polytechnic, Dr. Uduak S. Ukekpe expressed delight at the establishment of ACTU in the institution, and particularly commended the effort of the ICPC in ensuring that Corruption is reduced to the barest minimum in the society since it cannot be totally eradicated.
He charged the Anti-Corruption volunteers to keep an eagle eye on the administrative and academic activities in the school.
He said the polytechnic under his watch has zero tolerance for corrupt practices including examination malpractices, extortion of money from students,sex for grades and mismanagement of resources. He said those found wanting in character had in time past been duly sanctioned.
Hear him, ” .. the Management of the polytechnic understands that where there is corruption, there cannot be development. We are cut out for development and as such we don’t entertain any corrupt practices including examination malpractice, sales of grades,extortion or mismanagement of resources. In the recent past, those found wanting in character were sanctioned to serve as deterrent to others who may want to indulge in corrupt practices” he emphasized.
Responding, the Chairperson of ACTU, Federal Polytechnic, Ukana,Dr. Mercy Ebong pledged the readiness of members to give in their best in the task of ensuring transparency in the running of the polytechnic.
The Registrar of the institution while moving a vote of thanks appreciated ICPC for establishing ACTU and assured of the readiness of Management to assist the unit to succeed.
Highpoint of the event witnessed the formal inauguration of ACTU and presentation of souvenirs by the ICPC Commissioner to the Rector.
The event had in attendance the Deptuy Rector, Mr Elijah Edet Etuk,the Registrar-Dr.Okon J.Ekanem, Bursar -Mr Mark Binwal , Ag Head of Works -Engr. Imo Okoji among others.
