ICPC uncovers 908 ghost workers, recovers N942m from fraudulent payroll scheme. The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) says it has uncovered 908 ghost workers across several federal ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs), recovering about ₦942 million allegedly paid through a fraudulent payroll scheme.ICPC Chairman, Dr. Musa Aliyu (SAN), disclosed the development, according to a report by BBC Pidgin, stating that the discovery followed an investigation launched in 2024 after the commission detected irregularities in pension payments.
Aliyu said the probe uncovered hundreds of fictitious employees embedded in the payroll systems of various MDAs, leading to the diversion of public funds through fraudulent salary payments.He noted that the commission successfully recovered approximately ₦942 million that had allegedly been paid to the ghost workers, describing the recovery as part of the ICPC’s ongoing efforts to strengthen transparency and accountability in public service.The ICPC chairman said investigations into the payroll fraud are continuing, adding that those found culpable would be prosecuted in accordance with the law.
He reiterated the commission’s commitment to combating corruption and sanitising the public sector by identifying fraudulent practices and ensuring that government resources are protected from abuse.
Joseph Akwagiobe is a media contributor from Cross River State, Nigeria, currently based in Abuja. He is a graduate of Microbiology and has earned several professional certifications across diverse fields, reflecting his commitment to continuous learning, professional growth, and excellence.