Akwa Ibom State Governor Mr. Udom Emmanuel has advised the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), to uphold professionalism in the discharge of its responsibilities so as to sustain the already-built confidence of Nigerians in the commission, stressing that the commission must strive to maintain its independence.

The Governor stated this while interacting with members of the Commission who were on a courtesy visit to him at Government House, Uyo.

He noted that the commission which is a reputable anti-graft agency has commanded the respect of Nigerians following its operations and understanding of the workings of a democratic setting.

Mr. Emmanuel said given the integrity of members of the Commission selected purely on merit, it is impossible to believe that the Commission can be compromised or reduced to a tool for political witch-hunting and urged the commission to prosecute on conviction rather than on directives.

The Governor maintained that the operations of the State is anchored on transparency and accountability which is key to the industrialization blueprint of his administration.

He said that Akwa Ibom people are noted for their integrity and openness in all their dealings and this has earned them public trust and confidence all over the world.

The Governor however decried the attitude of frivolous petitions by some of its citizens describing such petitions as smear publications rooted on misunderstandings or sheer mischief.

While commending the Commission for hosting a workshop to create awareness on corruption, Governor Emmanuel used the occasion to enlist the services of the anti-graft agency in the training of political office holders as well as its workforce stating that such programmes would go a long way in sensitizing the people on the dangers of engaging in corrupt practices.

Earlier the Leader of the delegation and Secretary South South Zone of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) Mr. Elvis Oglafa, said the visit was to intimate the Governor on the sensitization programme held in the state and to take the anti-corruption campaign to the doorsteps of the people at the grassroots.

The Secretary who said that Akwa Ibom is one of the states with low reports of petitions, advised the people to develop positive mindset for public office holders explaining that most of the petitions written about those in positions of authority were based on misconceptions and disagreements.

Mr. Oglafa however called on the people to keep watchful eye on those whom they entrust public offices stressing that the responsibility of checkmating the excesses of those occupying positions of authority should not be left in the hands of the commission alone as every member of the society has a role to play in fighting corruption.

He commended the leadership of the state for sustaining superior performance in terms of infrastructure and capacity building programmes and thanked the Governor for the warm reception accorded them.

Also, the Chairman Advisory Consultative Committee of the commission, Dr. Asikpo Essiebibok, urged the people to acquaint themselves with the laws governing the operation of the agency and guard against writing spurious and unsubstantiated petitions against government officials.