A lecturer with the Department of Chemistry, University of Abuja, Dr Isaacs Ochi, has said that political corruption remains a significant challenge in Nigeria, with politicians and public officials often using their positions for personal enrichment rather than serving the public interest.
Ochi made this assertion as guest speaker during the weekend at the Merit Time International 2023/2024 award ceremony and public lecture held in Abuja. He delivered the public lecture entitled: “The Challenges of Leadership in Nigeria”.
At the event, a number of philanthropic Nigerians were conferred with the Merit Time Interdenominational awards for their humanitarian services and outstanding contributions to the development of the country.
Dr. Ochi condemned the use of powers by government officials for illegitimate private gain, saying this has eroded public trust in leadership and governance process in Nigeria.
He called on Presiden Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led administration to make candid efforts in achieving a more equitable distribution of resources and decentralisation power to help address grievances and foster national cohesion.
He said because of this entrenched corruption in public places, scarce public resources meant for infrastructure development, healthcare, education, and social welfare are siphoned through corrupt practices, depriving the populace of essential services and perpetuating cycles of poverty.
Ochi noted that the consequences of corruption were far-reaching and profound, impeding Nigeria’s development trajectory and increasing socio-economic inequalities.
“The abuse of power, electoral fraud, and impunity for corrupt acts undermine the integrity of democratic institutions and erode public confidence in the political process.
“Access to quality healthcare remains a privilege rather than a right for many Nigerians, particularly those in rural and underserved areas. The healthcare system is plagued by a lack of infrastructure, medical personnel, and essential supplies, contributing to preventable diseases, maternal mortality, and poor health outcomes.
“The COVID-19 pandemic exposed the vulnerabilities of Nigeria’s healthcare infrastructure, highlighting the urgent need for investment and reform in this critical sector.
“Moreover, corruption undermines investor confidence, stifles innovation, and deters foreign investment, hindering economic growth and job creation,” he added.
While proffering a solution to corruption in Nigeria, Dr Ochi called on the Federal Government to ensure implementation of robust anti-corruption measures, such as enhancing transparency in government operations, strengthening accountability mechanisms, empowering anti-corruption agencies, and promoting a culture of integrity and ethical leadership.
He added that there was the need to foster public awareness, civic engagement, and collaboration between government, civil society, and the private sector which are essential in combatting corruption effectively.
According to him, a comprehensive solution to Nigeria’s political challenges and governance issues lies in strengthening institutions to enhance transparency and effectiveness, promoting accountability to combat corruption, fostering inclusivity to bridge ethno-religious divides, and investing in education and awareness to empower citizens among others.
He also spoke on the prevailing security situation in the country posing formidable challenges to effective leadership and governance, stressing that the security threats, including terrorism, insurgency, communal violence, and organized crime, have continued to undermine peace, stability, and socio-economic development.
