The Federal Capital Territory High Court has dismissed a bid to stop the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) from investigating Kano State’s Ministry of Higher Education and Scholarship Board over alleged financial impropriety.
Justice Josephine Obanor ruled against officials who had challenged ICPC’s summons, stating that “an invitation letter from ICPC for investigation purposes does not constitute a breach of fundamental rights.” She also struck out the Attorney-General of the Federation from the suit, saying his joinder was unnecessary.
The case followed a petition alleging mismanagement of scholarship funds. Officials, led by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr Hadi Bala, had sought to restrain ICPC from questioning them. The court found no violation of rights and dismissed the suit for lacking merit.
ICPC said the ruling reinforces its authority to investigate alleged corruption and financial misconduct. The agency has previously uncovered cases of payroll manipulation, including “ghost workers,” recovering over N20 billion in pension deductions in 2024.
The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and accountability in the public sector, emphasising that investigations will continue under due process and the rule of Law.
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