ICPC calls for stronger forensic capacity to tackle sophisticated financial crimes

The Secretary to the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Mr. Okwudiri Oparaodu, has urged the Commission to significantly enhance its forensic capabilities to better investigate complex corrupt practices and financial fraud.

Speaking at the opening of a two-day capacity-building workshop for ICPC operations personnel, themed “Harnessing Forensic Capabilities in the Investigation of Corrupt Practices and Financial Frauds”, Mr. Oparaodustressed that forensic investigation is now central to modern law enforcement, vital for navigating increasingly sophisticated criminal methods.

He warned that any lapse in forensic processes could compromise investigations and potentially undermine cases in court.

“The integrity of your investigation rests on the robustness of your forensic application,” he said, urging participants to engage fully with the training and apply the knowledge to produce credible, verifiable, and defensible outcomes.

The workshop, sponsored by the Centre for Democracy and Development, includes both operational and administrative personnel to foster a comprehensive understanding of forensic applications across the Commission.

Welcoming participants, the Head of the ICPC External Cooperation Unit, Mr. Ahmed Abdul, encouraged attendees to maximise the opportunity to sharpen their investigative skills.

Speaking on behalf of the CDD, Mrs. Titilayo Olaniyan described the training as timely, given the growing complexity and transnational nature of corruption and financial crimes in Nigeria and the region.

She added that effective forensic techniques and modern investigative methods are essential for strengthening law enforcement and prosecutorial outcomes, noting that the initiative aligns with broader efforts to promote good governance and the rule of law.

The ICPC Secretary said that the knowledge gained should be swiftly integrated into the Commission’s operations to strengthen its core mandate of combating corruption and safeguarding public integrity.