ICPC: Data Protection Key to Anti-Corruption Fight

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The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has stressed that responsible handling of personal data is central to its anti-corruption mandate, saying public confidence depends on the Commission's ability to protect sensitive information.

ICPC Chairman, Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu (SAN), stated this while declaring open a one-day sensitisation and awareness programme on data protection and privacy for officers and staff at the Commission's headquarters in Abuja.

Represented by the Director of Legal Services, Henry Emore, the chairman said the Commission handles large volumes of personal information relating to petitioners, suspects, witnesses, complainants, employees, contractors and members of the public in the course of its investigations.

He noted that every personal record in the Commission's custody represents an individual's dignity, privacy and trust, making it imperative for officers to process and safeguard such information lawfully and responsibly.

Aliyu warned that while data has become an invaluable asset for governance, investigations and service delivery, its misuse or mishandling could compromise investigations, expose individuals to harm and erode public confidence in the Commission.

He said data protection is no longer the responsibility of only information technology professionals or lawyers, but an essential component of good governance, transparency, accountability and institutional integrity.

The ICPC chairman also disclosed that the Commission has strengthened its internal data protection framework through the establishment of a Data Protection and Incident Response Team to improve compliance, promote awareness and enhance response to data-related incidents.

Earlier, the Commission's Data Protection Officer, David Nwaze, described the programme as a strategic initiative aimed at reinforcing the understanding that protecting personal data is both a legal obligation and a professional responsibility.

The event featured presentations on responsible data handling and collaboration between the ICPC and the Nigeria Data Protection Commission to strengthen data protection compliance across the public sector.

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