The Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, has declared that corruption violates human dignity and undermines citizens’ basic rights.
He made this powerful statement in Abuja during a seminar marking African Anti-Corruption Day 2025, hosted by anti-corruption agencies.
Represented by Solicitor-General Beatrice Jedy-Agba, Fagbemi emphasized that stolen public funds directly harm healthcare, education, and judicial fairness.
“When hospitals are underfunded due to theft, it’s not just policy failure—it’s a denial of life and dignity.”
He added that diverting education budgets robs young Nigerians of opportunity and weakens their ability to change their future.
According to Fagbemi, corruption violates human dignity by stripping people of equal access to justice and fair treatment under law.
He urged stronger protection for journalists and whistleblowers, calling their role vital in exposing abuse and ensuring accountability.
The Minister stressed that fighting corruption must go hand in hand with the rule of law and civil rights.
“Law enforcement must never violate liberties. We must investigate, prosecute, and act lawfully to preserve institutional trust and dignity.”
Mrs. Jane Onwumerre of TUGAR echoed that corruption violates human dignity, especially when it targets the poor and vulnerable populations.
She said, “When development resources are stolen, the most disadvantaged suffer most—they lose healthcare, justice, and economic security.”
NEITI’s Executive Secretary, Dr. Orji Ogbonnaya Orji, reinforced that corruption causes poverty, erodes democracy, and destroys public trust in institutions.
He highlighted that NEITI counters corruption with transparency, public engagement, and reform-focused partnerships to rebuild public confidence nationwide.
Fagbemi concluded by insisting that integrity must guide governance, and protecting every Nigerian’s dignity must remain a top national priority.
