Kano, Nigeria – A Community Report-back Forum organized by the Resource Centre for Human Rights & Civic Education (CHRICED) in partnership with the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation has underscored the importance of transparency, inclusivity, and accountability in constituency projects in Kano State.
The event, held today, Thursday, June 6, 2024, at the Kano State Tourism Camp, brought together a diverse array of stakeholders committed to combating corruption in constituency projects. Participants included representatives from local government, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offenses Commission (ICPC).
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“The specific objectives of this program are to curb corruption in constituency projects, make them as transparent as possible, and make them inclusive and participatory,” stated Zuwaira Umar Muhammad, Program Officer for CHRICED. “There is a need to educate the constituents on the corruption happening in constituency projects.”
Muhammad highlighted several challenges facing the initiative, including a lack of adequate participation from local government representatives, who often view the program as a “witch hunt.” She also pointed out that many constituents are unaware of constituency projects and are reluctant to speak out against corrupt practices due to a mistrust in anti-graft agencies.
Despite these obstacles, Muhammad praised the EFCC and ICPC for their dedication to educating communities and receiving petitions. She called on the government to integrate citizens’ demands into constituency projects to prevent the mismanagement of funds.
Bashir Yusuf, Secretary of the Fagge Local Government Caretaker Committee, lauded CHRICED’s efforts and emphasized the need for collaboration between governmental and non-governmental organizations to ensure effective policy implementation. “Our doors are open to partnership, and we urge the government to join hands with NGOs to ensure that policies are implemented,” Yusuf said.
The forum aimed to provide a platform for effective dialogue between constituents and their representatives in governance, promoting a community-driven approach to tackling corruption in Kano State.
