The Independent Corrupt Practices and other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has sounded a warning about the pervasiveness of corruption in Nigeria, citing alarming statistics that highlight the country’s struggle to combat the scourge.
According to Chairman Musa Aliyu, Nigeria has experienced a staggering 87 million cases of bribery, with a total payment of N700 billion in 2023, with rural areas bearing the brunt of the problem.
Speaking at an event organized by Ahmadu Bello University’s Faculty of Law, Aliyu described corruption as a significant impediment to Nigeria’s development, eroding trust in public institutions, undermining the rule of law, and stifling economic growth. He emphasized that corruption is a both legal and social issue that requires a comprehensive approach.
The ICPC chairman cited a recent survey by the Nigeria Bureau of Statistics (NBS), which ranked corruption as the fourth most pressing problem in Nigeria, after cost of living, insecurity, and unemployment. Despite these challenges, Aliyu expressed optimism about progress being made in the fight against corruption, citing a significant increase in citizens reporting bribe payments to official authorities.
“Corruption undermines human rights, breeding inequality and oppression,” Aliyu said. “We are committed to upholding human rights and promoting social justice by combating corruption and ensuring access to essential services.”
The ICPC chairman also highlighted the prevalence of sexual harassment in Nigerian tertiary institutions, citing a 2018 World Bank survey that found approximately 70% of female graduates reporting experiences of harassment. He stressed that abuse of office is another common form of corrupt practice in many sectors of the public service.
Aliyu emphasized that human rights and social justice are essential for a fair society, ensuring dignity, freedom, and equal opportunities for all. He also urged continuous education and training for the judiciary to effectively adjudicate cyber-related cases such as online fraud, sexual extortion, cybersquatting, and unlawful interception of communications.
The ICPC chairman’s remarks underscore the need for sustained efforts to combat corruption and promote transparency and accountability in Nigeria. In related news, A Nigerian police officer, Superintendent Ibrahim Sini, rejected a N150 million bribe offer to allow the suspect to escape abroad and write a favourable report.
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