Corruption in Nigeria is one of the greatest challenges the country is facing despite efforts by the Federal Government in tackling this menace.
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, described corruption as a multifaceted problem that permeates various aspects of society and has far-reaching consequences for the development and stability of nations.
According to him, corruption has impeded the country’s ability to reach its full potential.
While speaking at the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission on Policy Dialogue on Corruption, Social Norms and Behavioural Change, on Tuesday, he asserted that weak governance structures, lack of transparency and accountability, poverty, and cultural acceptance of corrupt practices have fueled corruption in the country.
“While we have laws, policies, and institutions to tackle corruption, it is my considered opinion that corruption continues to fester owing to prevailing societal attitudes towards wealth, fame, power, and success regardless of how they are obtained.
It is in this light that I particularly find this conversation very crucial in the anti-graft war in our country. The behavioral and social norms approach to tackling corruption is akin to cutting off the root of an evil tree rather than trimming its branches. After all, prevention is better than cure.
“It follows, therefore, that addressing corruption requires not only legal and institutional reforms but also a transformation of social norms and behaviors.
In many cases, corrupt practices have become normalized within Nigerian society, making it challenging to eradicate them solely through legal means. Therefore, understanding and changing social norms becomes crucial to combating corruption effectively.
“In Nigeria, social norms play a significant role in shaping attitudes towards corruption and influencing individuals’ behavior.
These norms can either discourage or enable corrupt practices, depending on their nature and prevalence within society.
“These norms can include expectations of reciprocity, favoritism towards family and friends, and a general acceptance of bribery as a means to bypass bureaucratic hurdles.
Such norms create a vicious cycle where corrupt practices become ingrained in society and are passed down through generations. The widespread acceptance of bribery as a means to access basic services or secure personal benefits further nurtures corruption in the country,” he said.
He also cited an example of a situation where the take-home pay of the majority of the population is unable to take them home, making them indulge in corruption.
Hence, the House of Representatives is interested in the ongoing review of the minimum wage.
“The House this time around will ensure that Nigerians get a survival wage that could take them home,” he added.
He further expressed optimism that we can have a society where corruption is less tolerated by targeting social norms, raising awareness, strengthening institutions, promoting ethical leadership, and implementing effective legal measures.
