ICPC Uncovers Widespread Payroll Fraud in Nigeria

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has revealed significant payroll fraud within Nigerian federal ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs). ICPC Chairman Musa Adamu Aliyu disclosed that some senior public officials have exploited the system by enrolling relatives and associates as government workers to illegally collect salaries.

One suspect reportedly included his wife, son, and mother-in-law on the payroll while also claiming salaries for 12 fictitious workers. The ongoing investigation, launched in 2024, has identified the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) as the worst offender, with 570 suspected fake workers.

Other implicated MDAs include the National Water Resources Authority, Federal Ministry of Works, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Defence, Federal Ministry of Health, Federal Ministry of Interior, and the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation. The Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation is also reportedly involved.

Despite the introduction of the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS) to combat this issue, payroll fraud remains prevalent in Nigeria.