Nigeria for so many years has struggled with corruption to the extent that she was ranked 139th out of 176 countries in Transparency Internationals 2012 Corruption Perceptions Index alongside other countries like Azerbaijan, Kenya, Nepal and Pakistan.
According to a communiqué released by the Civil Society Network against Corruption (CSNAC) at the end of a Stakeholders’ Strategic Consultative Meeting held in Ikeja, Lagos, the Network observed that several factors contribute to the prevalent rate of corruption in Nigeria.
Some of these factors are unresolved investigations into cases of corruption by the National Assembly and State House of Assembly, corruption in the judicial system, inability of anti-corruption agencies to carry out their responsibilities effectively by the political class.
Others are gross abuse of power leading to misuse of public trust and resources which hampers the development and welfare of the people.
The Network resolved that civil society organisations need to commence litigating against corruption as a human rights issue, engage the media effectively to create public awareness and also partner with anti-corruption agencies amongst others.
Members of the Network stated that the need to collaborate effectively at all levels to fight corruption cannot be overemphasised as this will only help to promote good governance and respect for the rule of law.
By Remi Serrano
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