Sultan urges ICPC to probe alleged hoarding of essential commodities
The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, has asked the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to thoroughly and effectively investigate the activities of alleged essential commodity hoarders.
Abubakar made the call when he received the ICPC Commissioner in charge of Sokoto, Kebbi, and Zamfara, Alhaji Garba Tukur-Idris, who visited him in Sokoto.
"Hoarding foodstuffs is corruption. Some marketers hoard food items to obtain gains, especially during Ramadan fasting. I have been talking against such attitudes.
"Hoarding essential commodities with the intention of obtaining higher gain is against religious doctrines, and the laws prohibit such acts because they subject people to hardship, ”Abubakar said.
The Sultan challenged the ICPC and Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on a holistic and seamless approach to anti-corruption flight, stressing that the struggle needs to be supported at all levels.
He reassured the ICPC of traditional rulers’ support in checking corruption.
The Sultan also cautioned the agency against selective investigations, which he said were detrimental to the struggle as well as public recognition.
"Anti-corruption agencies must succeed. We are ready to support you at every level. The Sultanate Council has reprinted books authored by Sheikh Usman Danfodio and his disciples on corruption.
He enjoined anti-corruption agencies to be honest and sincere in their dealings, adding that traditional rulers were ready to support them and stand for them everywhere.
Speaking earlier, the ICPC commissioner said the agency’s war against corruption is key to good governance, growth, and development in the country.
Tukur-Idris appreciated Abubakar’s support for anti-corruption crusades leading traditional rulers on different occasions, adding that the commission is committed to detecting and tackling corruption that has a negative impact on Nigeria’s image.
According to him, the impact of corruption is manifested in underdevelopment and poverty, which makes the prospect of investment unappealing.
He added that the commission educates, sensitises Nigerians on the ills of corruption and engaged on investigation and prosecutions which ensured conviction and recovery of funds as well as goods.
He appealed for collaboration geared towards projecting Nigeria in a positive image to encourage internal and foreign investment while fostering development.
