NIESV Intensifies Collaboration With EFCC, ICPC, Others To Curb Quackery

The Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers (NIESV) said it has intensified collaboration with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), the Nigeria Police Force and other relevant agencies to curb quackery and professional misconduct.

NIESV President, Mallam Bature Muhammad, disclosed Omagwa, near Port Harcourt, during a night of tributes held in honour of the late first vice president of the institution, Emmanuel Mark.

Muhammad said the partnership also extends to the Special Control Unit against Money Laundering (SCUML) to ensure transparency and compliance within the real estate sector.

“Investigations by the EFCC have, in some instances, revealed that individuals involved in fraudulent real estate transactions were not registered estate surveyors and valuers but impostors posing as professionals.

“We have maintained a strong synergy with the EFCC, ICPC, the police and other agencies. We were among the first professional bodies to embrace SCUML registration because we recognise the importance of accountability and transparency.

“We also organise joint workshops to sensitise our members on ethical practice and regulatory compliance,” he said.

The NIESV president reaffirmed the commitment of the institution to professionalism, excellence and ethical practice in the environment.

While urging developers to engage qualified professionals to curb the rising incidence of building collapse across the country, Muhammad reiterated its resolve to tackle quackery and professional misconduct through sustained collaboration with relevant security and anti-corruption agencies.

He stated that the institution remained concerned about the increasing cases of building collapse, attributing many of the incidents to the activities of unqualified practitioners and the refusal of some developers to comply with professional specifications in a bid to cut costs.

Earlier, NIESV chairman in Rivers State, Nwokoma Nwankwo, said although members were grieving the painful loss, they remained grateful to God for the impactful life Mark lived.

Speaking further, Nwankwo said the theme: “Celebrating a Life of Service, Professional Excellence and Enduring Legacy,” was apt as he described the late first vice president as a servant-leader whose commitment to the institution was unwavering.

“He did not seek recognition; he sought results. He did not pursue titles; he pursued impact. Whether at the branch, the council or the management committee, he served with humility, integrity, wisdom and uncommon dedication,” he said.