The Senate has confirmed Professor Bolaji Owasanoye as Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).
The lawmakers took the decision during Thursday’s plenary at the National Assembly in Abuja.
They confirmed Professor Owasanoye after considering the report of the Committee on Anti-Corruption and Financial Crimes on the screening of nominees for confirmation as chairman and members of the ICPC.
The report was presented to the upper chamber by the Chairman of the committee, Senator Chukwuka Utazi, while Senator Andy Uba seconded that lawmakers consider the report.
Earlier, Senator Bassey Akpan faulted the selection process of members of the commission, saying the South-South and South-East were left out.
In his response, the Senate Leader, Senator Ahmad Lawan, said “the highest level” was consulted during the selection process and asked the lawmakers not to delay the appointment of the nominees whom he noted would make the ICPC better.
The Senate also confirmed eight others as members of the anti-graft agency.
They are Dr Grace Chinda, Okolo Titus, Obiora Igwedebia, Mrs Olubukola Balogun, Justice Adams Bello, Hannatu Muhammed, Abdullahi Saidu, and Yahaya Dauda.
Following the confirmation of the appointees, Senate President Bukola Saraki congratulated the chairman and the members.
He also asked them to ensure they perform their duty which out bias towards achieving the core objectives of the fight against corruption in the country.
Senator Saraki said, “I would like to congratulate the chairman and members. This is a very important commission in governance and in our fight against corruption.”
“I wish them a successful tenure and hope they carry out the job before them in a transparent and professional manner devoid of politics.”
