According to Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, the country’s national security adviser, winning the fight against corruption in Nigeria depends on establishing robust institutions and changing Nigerians’ attitudes.
Ribadu claims that corruption has eroded the legitimacy of the state, damaged institutions, and diverted vital funds intended for national development.
Delivering the 9th Oba Sikiru Adetona Annual Professorial Lecture of the Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago Iwoye, entitled ‘Corruption and National Security: Impacts and Consequences’, the former EFCC Chairman described the traditional ruler as a legend, a courageous and visionary leader who is always known to be standing for the truth and fighting against corruption and misgovernance.
Represented at the event by the Director General of the Department of State Service, Mr Oluwatosin Ajayi, Ribadu said, “We cannot talk about the insecurity in Nigeria without acknowledging that corruption has played a role in eroding public trust, compromising law enforcement effectiveness and some cases, enabling impunity.
“Whether it is the diversion of funds meant for the military hardware or the undermining of due process in arms procurement, the impact is weakening national capacity to respond to threats.”
However, Ribadu asserted that the nation’s security and corruption issues are not irredeemable and that honesty, leadership, and institutional changes are the paths to their resolution.
“Therefore we must fight corruption not by responding but by building a strong system that prevents corruption itself,” the former chairman of the Economy and Financial Crimes Commission continued.
Speaking, Prof. Oluwatoyin Ashiru, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the OOU Governing Council, called Oba Adetona a living legend in traditional kingship and leadership.
