In anti corruption campaign, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) reveal how corruption has severely battered the Nigeria’s economic and social development. To stem the tide, the commission called on Nigerians to make it a personal practice to fight the scourge as well as summon courage needed to expose corrupt practices.
ICPC’s Resident Anti-Corruption Commissioner, Mrs Ekere Usiere, stated this on Thursday in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State during an event to mark the Anti-Corruption Day organised by the Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB).
She reiterated the urgent need for all citizenry to combat the monster, warning that failure to act decisively could cost the country a dire consequence in the future.
In her statement, “There is no gainsaying that the scourge of corruption has brought Nigeria to its knees, from economic underdevelopment to socio-political decadence. If we don’t kill corruption, corruption will definitely kill Nigeria”.
She highlighted the importance of whistle-blowing as a critical tool in the fight against corruption, urging on patriotic citizens to overcome fear, intimidation and adopt a courageous mindset to expose malpractices and their perpetrators.
She explained, “Citizens need to overcome cultural, psychological, and systemic challenges to blow the whistle against corruption. If you see something, you must say something. If you hear something, you must say something,”
Earlier, the Executive Secretary of NCDMB, Engr. Felix Omotsola Ogbe reiterated his commitment to preventing corruption within the institution while pointing out the importance of raising awareness about its adverse effects, particularly among the youth.
Ogbe maintained, “Today, we are marking and celebrating International Anti-Corruption Day, focusing on raising the consciousness of our youth about the ills of corruption and its impact on socio-economic development. This is to send a strong message for extra vigilance in combating this menace.”