By MUHAMMED DANBABA
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has launched the tracking of constituency projects worth ₦21 billion in Kaduna State as part of efforts to enhance accountability and transparency in the implementation of public-funded initiatives.
Focus on 60 Projects
Speaking to reporters in Kaduna, Chief Superintendent Haruna Aminu, representing the ICPC’s Constituency and Executive Tracking Department, revealed that the commission is monitoring 60 projects across the state.
“We started in the Kafanchan axis, where we tracked 21 projects. Now, in Kaduna’s main town, Kabala area, we are focusing on solar-powered streetlights and other projects critical to community welfare,” Aminu said.
The tracking is aimed at ensuring that government funds allocated for these projects are judiciously utilized and that contractors meet their obligations.
Progress and Challenges
While acknowledging progress in some areas, Aminu highlighted delays, particularly with solar-powered streetlights, which have hampered their intended impact.
“If completed last year as planned, these projects would have significantly improved livelihoods in Kaduna State,” he noted.
The ICPC identified gaps in execution and has pledged to ensure contractors fulfill their responsibilities.
Accountability Measures
To curb the issue of abandoned projects, the ICPC emphasized:
- Full Compliance by Contractors: No contractor will be allowed to collect government funds without completing assigned projects.
- Tougher Sanctions: Contractors who fail to meet expectations will face stringent actions in the next phase of the exercise.
- Support for Monitoring: The ICPC has directives and resources to ensure all parties are held accountable.
“The era of abandoned projects is over. We will push contractors to complete projects because these initiatives touch the lives of people,” Aminu stated.
Impact on Communities
The commission reiterated the importance of these projects in delivering the dividends of democracy and improving the quality of life for residents. The initiative aligns with the ICPC’s broader mandate of fighting corruption and ensuring equitable distribution of resources.
As tracking progresses, the ICPC has committed to clamping down on non-compliant contractors to ensure that citizens reap the full benefits of public spending.
