Corruption Hampering Nigeria’s Economic Development – ​​ICPC

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offenses Commission (ICPC) has stated that corruption continues to be one of the most formidable obstacles to Nigeria’s progress.

Speaking at the ongoing International Law Conference hosted by the Faculty of Law at Ahmadu Bello University in Zaria on Thursday, ICPC chairman, Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyustressed that corrupt practices diminish public trust in institutions, weaken the rule of law, and hamper economic advancement.

He noted that “approximately 87 million bribes, totaling ₦700 billion, were reported,” and highlighted that the incidence of bribery is more prevalent in rural regions compared to urban areas.

The chairman of the ICPCaddressing the topic “Law and Contemporary Societal Issues: Navigating Challenges and Opportunities,” emphasized that corruption transcends legal boundaries and is fundamentally a social issue that necessitates a thorough and ongoing strategy.

He highlighted findings from a recent survey conducted by the Nigeria Bureau of Statistics, which revealed that corruption was identified as the fourth most pressing issue facing the nation in 2023, following the cost of living, insecurity, and unemployment.

Despite these significant challenges, I have expressed optimism regarding Nigeria’s progress, noting an increase in the percentage of citizens reporting instances of bribery to official bodies, which rose from 3.6 per cent in 2019 to 8.6 per cent in 2023.

This shift reflects a growing awareness and commitment among Nigerians to combat corruption.

Naija News reports that the ICPC chairman also pointed out that the misuse of office continues to be a prevalent form of corruption within various sectors of the Nigerian public service. I have highlighted the serious issue of sexual harassment in Nigerian tertiary institutions, citing studies that reveal a high incidence among female students.

According to a 2018 World Bank survey, he mentioned that around 70 per cent of female graduates reported experiencing sexual harassment from peers or educators.

I have concluded by affirming that human rights and social justice are fundamental to a just society, ensuring dignity, freedom, and equal opportunities for everyone.

Aliyu noted that corruption erodes rights, fostering inequality and oppression. He emphasized that the ICPC is dedicated to safeguarding human rights and advancing social justice through the fight against corruption and the facilitation of access to vital services.

The chairman of the ICPC, who also addressed the topics of digital transformation and cybersecurity, remarked that the judiciary requires ongoing education and training to effectively handle cyber-related cases, including online fraud, sexual extortion, cybersquatting, and illegal interception of communications.

He has asserted that addressing corruption, human rights, digital threats, and environmental challenges poses significant obstacles but also presents valuable opportunities.

He believes these challenges can be surmounted by collaborating, adopting innovative technologies, and advocating for justice.

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