The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) on Thursday in Enugu called on transport operators and commuters to unite against extortion by law enforcement agencies.

The commission also urged the people to report any case of extortion to it for immediate action whenever it occurred.

The commission’s National Commissioner in charge of Education, Mr Mohammed Baba, made the call at an anti-corruption sensitisation workshop organised for road transport workers in Enugu state.

Baba, who was represented by a staff of the commission, Mr Suleiman Jimoh, said that the informal sector had a duty to perform in the fight against corruption.

He described the event as a milestone, saying that it signalled the first meeting between the commission and the transport sector in the state.

“Road transport workers should seek for collaboration with law enforcement agencies to educate them on what is required of them as they drive on the road.

“As a follow-up, the association should constantly sensitise members to always carry with them complete particulars and driver’s licence and report to ICPC any attempt to extort them.

“The anti-corruption agencies can help you if you report cases of corruption to it. The ICPC law protects the person who reports corruption.

“So, do not sit back and watch people take the money that belongs to you or use their position to cheat you of your rights,” he said.

Baba said that the fight against corruption should not be left for anti-corruption agencies alone.

In a lecture, the Legal Officer, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Enugu Sector Command, Mrs Joyce Okochie, warned motorists against violation of traffic rules.

Okochie also warned them against offering any form of bribe to FRSC officers as a means of circumventing traffic rules.

She said that the corps would ensure free flow of traffic on the highways always, especially during the Yuletide.

She maintained that the FRSC had powers to arrest and prosecute traffic offenders, impound and confiscate vehicles.

“Motorists should ensure that their vehicles are in order and should avoid the violation of traffic laws and regulations,” Okochie said.

In a remark, the South-East Zonal Commissioner of ICPC, Mr Amedu Sule, lauded the commission and transporters for their collaboration.

Sule, who was represented by the Head, Education and Enlightenment, Mr Suleiman Achile, called for the sustenance of such interaction, adding that it would help in fighting corruption.

“The decision to organize this programme at this time is quite timely and appropriate, especially as we move into the Yuletide which is usually associated with all forms of sharp practices,” Sule said. (NAN)

– Nov. 22, 2018 @ 19:05 GMT |