ICPC to probe diversion of COVID-19 funds, relief material

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has confirmed it is investigating alleged cases of fraud in the management of COVID-19 funds.

ICPC’s Director of Operations, Akeem Lawal, stated this during a virtual meeting the agency held with stakeholders on Thursday.

The theme was “COVID-19 Funds Management and Monitoring: Preventing Slide into Old Habits.”

Lawal disclosed that some of the cases involved some government institutions in charge of the release and distribution of grains from the reserve.

According to him, there is also a case where emergency funds were diverted into a private bank account.

“In all cases of infraction, culprits will be investigated and prosecuted.

ICPC chairman, Bolaji Owasanoye, had earlier said the commission has set up a committee to monitor use of COVID-19 funds “because this period could trigger a high level of corruption,” Lawal said.