The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has secured a final forfeiture order for ₦941,994,079.86 linked to an alleged ghost worker fraud uncovered during investigations into the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS).
Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court in Abuja granted the order following an ex parte application filed by the ICPC on behalf of the Federal Government, ruling that the funds, believed to be proceeds of unlawful activities, be permanently forfeited.
The Commission said the investigation, which began after a 2023 systems audit of the IPPIS, uncovered widespread payroll irregularities and identified 587 suspected ghost workers across several Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs).
According to the ICPC, fictitious payroll identities were created for non-existent employees, with salaries allegedly paid into bank accounts belonging to individuals and companies over several years. Authorities subsequently froze ₦941.9 million in suspected proceeds of the fraud through Post No Debit (PND) restrictions placed on the affected accounts.
The affected institutions include the Nigeria Police Force, the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation, several federal ministries, and universities across the country.
The Commission disclosed that a verification exercise cleared 120 genuine civil servants, while 467 bank accountsremained linked to unverified individuals, leading to the forfeiture proceedings.
Justice Nyako ordered the final forfeiture of the funds to the Federal Government, describing them as proceeds recovered during investigations into the IPPIS payroll scam.
The ICPC said the judgment underscores its commitment to combating corruption, protecting public funds, and promoting transparency and accountability in the public service.
