ANTI-CORRUPTION DAY: A CHARITY BEGINS AT HOME, BUT IS THE FIGHT TRULY HONEST?

 ANTI-CORRUPTION DAY: A CHARITY BEGINS AT HOME, BUT IS THE FIGHT TRULY HONEST?

By Tijjani Sarki

Good Governance Advocate and Public Policy analyst 

As the world observes another International Anti-Corruption Day, we must confront a harsh reality, corruption continues to undermine governments, institutions, and economies worldwide. Despite numerous promises and international frameworks, including the United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC), the battle against corruption remains largely ineffective, particularly in countries like Nigeria. What should be a fight for justice often becomes a farce.

Corruption the misuse of public power for private gain erodes trust, hinders development, and perpetuates inequality. The UNCAC, signed by Nigeria in 2003, urges states to establish robust systems to combat corruption. Yet, years of empty promises and half-hearted reforms have left Nigeria, among others, mired in the same systemic failures.

Nigeria’s Struggle: A Microcosm of Global Failures

Consider the case of Diezani Alison-Madueke, former Minister of Petroleum Resources, accused of embezzling billions of dollars. Despite being indicted in 2015, she remains abroad, and justice remains elusive. Similarly, Abdulrasheed Maina, former head of the Pension Reform Task Team, managed to evade prosecution for years, despite being accused of embezzling over N2 billion meant for pensioners. His eventual trial was plagued by political interference, reflecting the deep-rooted issues in Nigeria’s fight against corruption.

The case of Ayodele Fayose, former governor of Ekiti State, who was convicted but continues to benefit from judicial delays and political manipulation, underscores how the powerful escape accountability. These cases are not exceptions but part of a broader, systemic problem where political elites exploit legal loopholes, creating a culture of impunity.

The Hadi Sirika Case: A Modern Example of Corruption in Plain Sight

Another striking example is Hadi Sirika, Nigeria’s former Minister of Aviation. Sirika, during his tenure, was embroiled in allegations of financial mismanagement and corruption related to the national carrier project. Despite claims of financial misconduct, no serious investigations have resulted in accountability, raising questions about the real commitment to anti-corruption reforms. His case, like many others, reveals the disconnect between policy, implementation, and real accountability.

The Executive’s Role: Hindering Progress

At the heart of this problem is political interference, particularly by the executive branch, which manipulates the system to protect allies. The Halliburton scandal, which implicated Nigerian officials under former President Goodluck Jonathan, is another example of high-level corruption that went unpunished. Although evidence was clear, no significant figures were held accountable, illustrating how those in power can obstruct justice.

When executives undermine judicial independence and politicize anti-corruption agencies, the process becomes more about image than impact. The case of Sambo Dasuki, former National Security Adviser, accused of embezzling defense funds, is emblematic of how political influence can delay or derail justice.

A Call for Genuine Reform

On this Anti-Corruption Day, the question is clear, Will we continue to tolerate a system where corruption is left unchecked by those in power? The UNCAC offers a comprehensive framework, yet the lack of political will and executive interference remains a barrier to genuine reform.

For the fight against corruption to be real, judicial independence must be protected, anti-corruption agencies must be allowed to operate without fear or favor, and those in power must be held accountable not just in words, but in action. It is time to dismantle the structures of impunity and restore the rule of law.

The Nigerians has had enough of empty promises. As we mark this day, let it not only serve as a reminder of the problem but as a call to action. A real fight against corruption begins with the courage to confront it head-on, with no exceptions.

Tijjani Sarki wrote from

Executive Director

Responsive citizens Initiative zawaciki, Kano

Can be reached 

tijjanisarki.blogspot.com

9th December, 2025