AN ASSESSMENT OF THE INSTITUTIONAL APPROACH TO FIGHTING ADMINISTRATIVECORRUPTION IN NIGERIA: ICPC AND EFCC IN FOCUS

This study examines the institutional mechanisms adopted to combat administrative corruption in Nigeria, with particular focus on the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Corruption remains a persistent and pervasive challenge in Nigeria, undermining governance, distorting public resource allocation, and impeding socio-economic development. Despite the establishment of these anti-graft agencies, the menace of corruption continues unabated, raising concerns about their effectiveness and the institutional obstacles confronting them. Through a qualitative research design and secondary data analysis, the study explores the structural, legal, financial, and political constraints impeding the performance of the ICPC and EFCC. Findings reveal that challenges such as inadequate funding, insufficient skilled personnel, constitutional immunity for political office holders, weak judicial processes, and political interference significantly hinder these agencies. The study also underscores that public perception, inconsistent prosecutions, and selective justice further erode the credibility of the anti-corruption crusade. The research concludes that while the existence of ICPC and EFCC has brought some awareness and modest progress in the fight against corruption, their capacity and independence must be strengthened. Recommendations include constitutional reforms to eliminate immunity clauses, enhanced institutional autonomy, increased public enlightenment, and greater international cooperation to combat transnational financial crimes. These measures are necessary for Nigeria’s anti-corruption institutions to fulfill their mandates effectively and contribute to national development.