Dr Oby Ezekwesili
Former World Bank Vice President, Dr. Oby Ezekwesili, has stated that the President Muhammadu Buhari-led administration is yet to carry out any comprehensive action against corruption.
She noted that tentative actions that would go to the radical restructuring of the economy, political and social institutions needed to be carried out urgently.
Ezekwesili spoke yesterday at a public lecture organised by The Christian Conscience, with the theme: “Religion and Corruption: Strategic direction in fighting corruption in Nigeria.”
The Convener of Bring Back Our Girls (BBOG), who stated that the petroleum sector has to be overhauled as part of actions against corruption in the country, said: “In terms of a comprehensive action against corruption, this administration has not done much. I believe that tentative actions that would go to the radical restructuring of the economy, political and social institutions have to be considered.
Ezekwesili, who also lamented the situation where agencies set up to fight against corrupt practices are fighting against themselves, said: “It is a sad situation to see that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is engaged in a fight with other security agencies on the matter of punishing corrupt persons. It sends a signal of unseriousness on the persecution side of fighting corruption.
In terms of ensuring that bad behaviour is punished and good behaviour is rewarded, we are not yet seeing that with this administration.
“There is need for the President to take the lead in this fight.”
Besides, Prof. Tayo Aluko, representing the guest lecturer, said: “To fight against corruption effectively, we must show our dislike for it and we must be honest to encourage hardwork and when we see someone who has no strong means of livelihood living above his income, we must be swift to report such fellow.
“Corruption has no strong power; all that it requires to deal with it is the courage to face it headlong and in no time, it will give way.”
Also, Lagos State Commissioner for Home Affairs, Dr. Abdul-Hakeem Abdul-Lateef, advocated that it is time for everyone to have an individual approach to change starting from the parents and teachers.
He said that rather than collect money from politicians, people should demand for basic amenities that would lead to the development of the nation.
Meanwhile, Chairman, Christian Conscience Group, Enoch Ajiboso, stated that corruption is fighting back against the administration, saying: “The effort of the government seems to have made no significant impact in reducing the prevalence of corruption, hence the need for a strategic direction.”
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