The President of the Nigerian Bar Association, Afam Osigwe, has said there is the urgent need to eradicate corruption in Nigeria as it undermines democracy, sets back and stunts developments in any country.
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The NBA president said this while speaking to news men in Abuja, as Nigeria joins the International Community to mark the International Anti-Corruption Day, a day set aside by the United Nations to raise awareness about the devastating effects of corruption.
In Nigeria, the day is particularly significant, given the country’s long-standing struggle with corruption.
Campaigns have been made on a real occasions to raise awareness about the dangers of corruption and the importance of transparency and accountability.
Despite these efforts, corruption remains a major challenge in Nigeria. The country has been ranked low in transparency and accountability indices, and corruption has been linked to poverty, inequality, and underdevelopment.
Afam Osigwe who harped on the theme of the anti corruption day celebration, “Uniting with the youths against corruption; Shaping tomorrows integrity”, noted that there is the need to engage the youth in the fight against corruption.
“Corruption is a complex phenomenon ranging from fraud, embezzlement, illicit financial flows, administrative malfeasance, mismanagement of Public resources, absence of transparency and impunity in public service”.
“It is undoubtedly the most potent threat to governance and development as it undermines democracy, creates unstable governments, sets countries back economically and can inappropriately affect the poorest and most marginalized people”.
“Notably, our nation has been the base of corrupt practices ranging from budget padding, rampant kidnapping and illicit enrichment of public officials.
This year’s theme is a very vital as the fight against corruption is not solely the burden of Policy makers, activists and enforcement agencies but the future of integrity rests in large part on the shoulders of today’s youths”.
“The digital revolution has both amplified the reach of corruption and simultaneously created powerful tools to combat it. Digital natives are uniquely positioned to harness technology and accountability. Their innate understanding of social media , data analysis and online platforms can be leveraged to expose corrupt practices, monitor government spending and promote ethical leadership.”
“The role of youths in combating corruption goes far beyond mere technological prowess and their crucial assets are often overlooked. They also harbor deep seated desire for fairer, more just societies, a world free from the suffocating grip of corruption. This idealism when channeled effectively becomes a potent force for change.”
The senior lawyer also noted that empowering the youths with the requisite Knowledge by providing comprehensive education on the impact of corruption and mechanisms for reporting it, must be accessible and tailored to their understanding.
“Creating platforms for participations and establishing youth led anti corruption initiatives, providing mentorship opportunities and encouraging their active involvement in civic engagement. Their voices must be heard not just listened to”.
“Fostering collaboration, building bridges between youth organizations government agencies, civil society groups and the private sector to create a unified front against corruption.Recognizing and rewarding their contributions, demonstrating that their efforts matter and that they are making a tangible difference.”
The NBA however calls for all sectors to put hands together and move with one strong force against corruption as they unite with the youths to equip them with the knowledge, platforms and encouragement they need to become the vanguard of a new era of transparency, accountability and ethical leadership.
“As lawyers and stakeholders in Nigeria, we all face some form of corruption in our dealings but we may have discounted the consequences of it in order to “get things done”. So even the legal profession is not free of this ill.”
“The promotion of rule of law which the NBA is committed to and the economic development of Nigeria can only survive in an environment devoid of corruption.
This world observance of an International event on corruption, reaffirms the people from all classes and various parts of the globe that a corruption free society is possible if we work in union. It fosters the courage to speak up against corruption rather than becoming silent prey to its effects.”
“We therefore enjoin and encourage every Nigerian and our brother Bar associations around the world to take affirmative steps to support the legal profession and unite with the Youths in combating corruption.”
“Bar associations should consider the ways in which they can provide guidance and technical assistance to support young lawyers in their jurisdiction who wish to take affirmative action in fighting corruption.”
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