ICPC Urges UNIUYO To Strengthen Anti-Corruption Measures

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has urged the management of the University of Uyo (UNIUYO) to adopt proactive measures to prevent corruption and strengthen accountability in the institution.

The call came as the university, under the leadership of its Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Christopher Nyong Ekong, marked its first 100 days in office.

To address financial crimes and other forms of misconduct, the university inaugurated a 12-member Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU), with a mandate to tackle corruption and promote transparency in its administration.

The ICPC urged members of the unit to make integrity, accountability, transparency and ethical conduct central to the university’s operations.

The inauguration, held at the 1,000-Seater TETFund Building on the institution’s Nwaniba main campus in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, was attended by members of the university management and other senior officials.

The event formed part of efforts to strengthen institutional mechanisms for preventing corruption and promoting transparency.

Speaking at the event, the ICPC Chairman in charge of Akwa Ibom and Cross River states, Mr. Baba Alaro Shuaib, charged members of the ACTU to “remain committed to the principles of integrity, accountability and transparency in the discharge of their responsibilities.”

He stressed the need to prevent corrupt practices rather than wait until they occurred before taking action.

“Corruption prevention requires the collective commitment of management, staff and other members of the University community,” he said.

Shuaib urged the unit to identify areas vulnerable to corruption and promote systems that would reduce opportunities for unethical practices.

He also emphasised the importance of complying with established rules and procedures, maintaining ethical standards and ensuring accountability in the administration of the institution.

In his remarks, Ekong expressed the university’s readiness to work closely with the ICPC to strengthen transparency and accountability.

He welcomed the establishment of the ACTU, describing it as an important step towards building a stronger culture of integrity within the institution.

The vice-chancellor said the responsibility for ensuring accountability should not rest on one individual or office but required the collective commitment of the entire university community.

He assured the ICPC and members of the ACTU of the university’s support and cooperation in carrying out their mandate.

Ekong also appealed to members of the university community to work together to protect the institution’s reputation and strengthen public confidence in its administration.