ICPC partners PWD group to combat discriminatory practices

​The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has pledged to deepen collaboration with Nigeria’s disability community.

The partnership aims to combat corruption, tackle discrimination, and promote equal opportunities.

During the meeting in Abuja on Thursday, the ICPC, represented by Clifford Oparaodu, its secretary, affirmed that the commission has an inclusive recruitment policy and already employs persons with disabilities (PWDs).

“ICPC does not discriminate in its recruitment or operations,” Oparaodu stated.

“We treat every verifiable petition on its merit, irrespective of the petitioner’s background or vulnerability.”

He welcomed proposals from the Pioneers Ad Hoc Consortium of Nigeria’s Disability Civil Rights Movement, and confirmed the commission’s readiness to explore joint initiatives, including tackling corruption in disability-focused institutions, strengthening whistleblower engagement, and improving accessibility.

​Omotunde Ellen Thompson, co-founder and chairperson of the Joint National Association for Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), highlighted the key challenges faced by the disability community, such as corruption and systemic neglect.

She commended ICPC for its “professionalism and empathy”.

​”We value ICPC’s track record in addressing high-profile cases and the compassion it has shown. But more must be done to ensure dignity, protection, and fairness for persons with disabilities,” Thompson said.

She called for a department of veteran affairs and proposed creating a dedicated desk officer for disability matters and specialised training programmes.

The association also submitted a formal petition and a proposed memorandum of understanding (MoU).

​”We are excited about the possibilities of this partnership and are determined to make sure it delivers real results for the disability community,” Oparaodu added.

The meeting ended with a renewed commitment from the ICPC to act on any verifiable petition within its mandate.