Court sends NSCDC officer to jail for job scam

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has secured the conviction of Idris Barde, a Deputy Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), for job racketeering.

In a statement on Thursday, John Odey, the Head of Media and Public Communications, said that Mr Barde was found guilty by Justice Ngozika Nwabulu of the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Kurudu, Abuja.

Mr Barde, who worked as a personal assistant to former NSCDC Commandant General Abdullahi Gana, faced prosecution on two counts. This was due to his alleged receipt of N4.55 million from Igbo Christian Okechukwu, claiming he could secure jobs in the NSCDC for seven people.

The statement noted that one charge stated that Mr Barde accepted money while serving as a public officer in the NSCDC Commandant General's office in 2017. He did this as an inducement to help with recruitment into the agency.

This action violated Section 18(d) of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000. The ICPC presented both documentary and testimonial evidence during the trial to back up their claims against him.

After looking at all the evidence, the court found Mr Barde guilty and sentenced him to 12 months in prison. He has the option to pay a N4 million fine instead, according to the commission.

This conviction adds to a series of prosecutions by the ICPC targeting employment racketeering in government agencies. This issue continues to affect job seekers, especially with high unemployment and tough competition for public sector jobs.

Anti-corruption agencies have often warned Nigerians against paying money to anyone who claims they can secure jobs in government institutions. They stress that recruitment into public agencies follows set procedures.

ICPC is serious about fighting corruption

After the judgement, the ICPC described the conviction as proof of its commitment to holding public officers accountable for corruption and abuse of power.

The commission stated it is dedicated to promoting integrity, transparency, and accountability in Nigeria's public service. It urged public officials and citizens to follow ethical standards and obey the law.

The ICPC also assured Nigerians that it will keep using all lawful means to prevent, investigate, and prosecute corruption-related offences across the country.