CHATHAM HOUSE REPORT ON CORRUPTION

The report is another wake-up call on corruption

Last Friday in Abuja, Chatham House, a London-based think tank, held a stakeholders’ forum to launch its latest research findings on corruption in Nigeria. After assessing efforts to tackle the phenomenon since the end of military rule in the late 1990s, the report concludes that these efforts have yielded uneven results, having been hindered by politicisation, weak institutions and double standards among leaders. According to the Chatham House report, corruption has caused a crisis of trust in Nigeria’s institutions and society. Some of the salient conclusions are that failure to reduce corruption has led to political clientelism and impunity and created a perception among citizens that there is no accountability for those involved, and higher risks for those who resist. Many Nigerians are also keen to stand up against corruption, but feel resigned, sensing that it is the price for getting things done.

Drawing on research by its Social Norms and Accountable Governance project – including its fourth (and most recent) annual national household survey, conducted in partnership with the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) in 2023, Chatham House calls for a change in approach to anti-corruption. It presents evidence that bringing together reformers across different sectors can help change underlying social norms perpetuating corruption as an enabler of lasting reforms. Institutions, according to the report, are not self-enforcing. Neither are reforms self-implementing. In corrupted systems, values such as integrity, transparency and public service need credible and competent individuals to demonstrate them. The paper therefore presents a plan of action – applicable across institutions and sectors – for supporting Nigeria’s integrity role models and amplifying their voices in the fight against corruption.

Author of the report, Leena Koni Hoffmann, Associate Fellow of the Chatham House Africa Programme, says there are “numerous exceptions to corruption rules in Nigeria,” and that “contrary to the perception of corruption’s prevalence in society, not everybody is engaging in it. We have people who resist corruption in our own lives.” Data from the Chatham House survey, according to Hoffman, reveals that “as a community, as a society, Nigerians have strong values around fairness, around civic duty despite the effects of systemic corruption. So, the software of society isn’t completely corrupted.”

Meanwhile, it is not too difficult to track some of these sharp practices in Nigeria. For instance, the annual report of the Office of the Auditor-General of the Federation reveals some of these issues. Some of the infractions include details of unauthorised deductions from money due to the federation account by revenue collecting agencies, irregularities in payment and expenditure, irregularities in contract award and execution, etc. With the audit reports, the link between abuse of, or general disregard for extant rules and corruption cannot be made clearer. Once rules are ignored, as is evident in the annual reports by the auditor general, all other templates for transparency and accountability lose their validity. Unfortunately, Nigerians hardly pay attention to the reports.

We hope that relevant authorities will adopt the Chatham House report which highlights the role of integrity role models in coordinating actions against corruption in Nigeria. Some of the recommendations include putting in place penalties that are socially meaningful, celebrating good behaviours while disincentivising bad ones. The federal government is also asked to work with the legislative branch to finally mandate asset declaration and public disclosure of such information to citizens. While calling for legislation to protect whistleblowers, the report states that “Nigerians should be able to monitor the wealth status of their leaders over time.”

Representatives of the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) and other agencies of government were at the session. We hope they will take in highlights from the report in their efforts to instill transparency and accountability in Nigeria’s public life.

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    In a Telephone Call, Buhari Rejoices With Tinubu at 73, Appreciates Role in Making Him President

    In a Telephone Call, Buhari Rejoices With Tinubu at 73, Appreciates Role in Making Him President

    *Babangida, Akpabio, Abbas, govs, CDS, Keyamo, others eulogise Tinubu

    Deji Elumoye, Linus Aleke, Folalumi Alaran in Abuja, Chinedu Eze in Lagos, and Ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja

    Former President Muhammadu Buhari yesterday rejoiced with President Bola Tinubu on his 73rd birthday, and used the occasion to appreciate the president for his role in making him two-time president of Nigeria.

    Others who rejoiced with President Tinubu include former military president, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (rtd); the President of Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio; the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas; his deputy, Benjamin Kalu; Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Ondo State Governor, Mr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa; Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo; Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State and the Minister for Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, who described his vision and dedication to Nigeria as inspiring.

    Meanwhile, the Nigerian military, through the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christorpher Musa, has also felicitated Tinubu on his 73rd birthday anniversary celebration.
    According to a statement issued yesterday by Buhari’s spokesperson, Mallam Garba Shehu, the former president, in a telephone call to Tinubu on Friday, underscored the bond between him and Tinubu.
    Buhari said he and the members of his family are in prayers for Tinubu for long life, good health and the successful administration of the country.

    The former president said his family and himself remain indebted to President Tinubu and the other leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the invaluable contributions they made towards the formation of the party and catapulting him to the presidency for two terms after failed attempts in the past, and in helping to produce another APC administration with Tinubu himself at its head.

     “No doubt, the annals of the country will not be complete without bringing into mention, and a recognition of the varied and numerous roles of President Tinubu as an entrepreneur, a party stalwart, a staunch activist, party organiser, party builder, a reliable ally and a serial winner of democratic elections. I am truly proud of my association with the Asiwaju,” Buhari explained.

    Buhari also used the opportunity to wish the president, his family, and the nation a successful completion of the Ramadan fast and a happy and joyful Sallah (Eid).
    In his statement, entitled: “Asiwaju of the Universe, Happy Birthday,” Babangida stated that he also joined millions of Tinubu’s admirers, associates, supporters and fellow Nigerians to celebrate him with a pat on the back.

    Babangida wrote: “There comes a time in the life of a nation when uncommon personality and courageous disposition form the basis for appreciating the essentials of problem-solving leadership.
    “With your rich background in the struggle for the emancipation of the ordinary Nigerian, coupled with your commitment to deepening democratic values in Nigeria, your history speaks for your persona,” the former military president said.

    Babangida added: “You have come to lead Nigeria at a very trying time in our nation’s history, but your leadership intervention thus far, has been very remarkable, bold, resilient and encouraging.
    “Only those who have been there know exactly the grit required to lead Nigeria and Nigerians.
    “Mr. President, let me assure you of my support and solidarity always.
    “Even though the challenges facing us as a nation may be daunting, you have shown equal commitment to contend with the realities that stare us in the face.

    “I can easily recollect when our paths crossed in the late eighties when the government I ran was trying to birth democracy.
    “You have remained consistent to your ideals, principles, and democratic values to date, which is why Nigerians entrusted you with the mandate to lead them at this auspicious moment. A result-driven and utility leader like you fits the present challenges, especially with the kind of innovations and policy thrust of your administration, so far.

    “You must not be tired or discouraged in providing the desired leadership to move the country forward.
    “You have shown grit, gusto and gravitas in your leadership emanations, and the courage you have exemplified speaks to your capacity to take uncommon decisions.
    “Mr. President and the Asiwaju of the Universe, as I fondly call you, congratulations on your 73rd birthday celebrations,” Babangida said.

    On his part, Akpabio described the president’s passion for Nigeria’s progress as contagious.
    “As Senate President, I have had the privilege of working closely with you, and I must say that your passion for Nigeria’s progress is contagious,” he said.
    The Senate President said that as the president of Nigeria in the last two years, Tinubu had demonstrated astute leadership, as he advocated for democratic values and bold economic reforms that had started to yield dividends.

    On his part, House Speaker, Abbas, in a congratulatory message issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Musa Krishi, said Nigeria is lucky to have a democrat and patriot in the person of President Tinubu as its leader at this critical point in the country’s democratic journey.

    The speaker commended the first citizen for taking some bold initiatives aimed at turning around the fortune of the Nigerian state, such as the removal of subsidy from petrol, among other reforms.
     The Deputy Speaker, Kalu, has also congratulated Tinubu for his courage in taking some painful but necessary steps to stabilise the economy.

    In a congratulatory message issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Levinus Nwabughiogu, Kalu lauded Tinubu’s efforts to develop the geo-political zones in Nigeria through the creation of regional development commissions.
    Ondo State Governor, Aiyedatiwa, in a congratulatory message issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Ebenezer Adeniyan, said under the Renewed Hope administration of Tinubu, his state has witnessed unprecedented federal presence and support, including infrastructural projects and appointments.
     Governor Uzodimma, on his part, said Tinubu’s leadership has opened the door to Nigeria’s new era of growth and sustainable progress across all sectors.

    In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary/Special Adviser (Media), Oguwike Nwachuku, the Imo State governor prayed for the wellbeing of the President, asking for divine blessings of long life, good health, and wisdom so that Tinubu will continue to steer Nigeria towards greatness.
    Meanwhile, the Nigerian military has also felicitated Tinubu, on his 73rd birthday and prayed to God to continue preserving him and his family to steer the country towards a brighter future.

    The Lagos State Government, led by Governor Sanwo-Olu, celebrated the president with thanksgiving services and prayers held simultaneously at the Chapel of Christ the Light, Alausa, and Lagos Secretariat Community Central Mosque, Alausa, as well as other religious centres in the five divisions of the state.

    A statement personally signed by the CDS, General Musa, on behalf of the Service Chiefs and the entire Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN), stated that the military remains loyal and committed to the president’s ideals and aspirations for a safer nation where citizens and their businesses can thrive.

    The CDS noted that the successes achieved so far in the fight against insurgency, terrorism, economic sabotage, and other criminalities could not have been achieved without President Tinubu’s immense guidance and purposeful leadership.
    “As you celebrate, we are confident that the Almighty God will guide, protect, and provide you with sound health and additional wisdom to steer the ship. We seize this opportunity to continue pledging our unending resolve to submit to our constitutional responsibilities and ensure a safer, more peaceful nation,” Musa added.

    In his message, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Keyamo, described Tinubu as the “Aare Ona Kankafo” of all political and democratic struggles in the land.
    “It will take decades before Nigerians truly and fully understand and appreciate the value President Tinubu has brought into our democratic space in all ramifications and the audacity with which he has taken on some of our key systemic challenges as a nation, root and branch,” the minister added.

    Also in his birthday message, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, described President Tinubu as a transformative leader whose vision and courage will leave an indelible mark on history.
    In a statement signed by Alake’s Special Assistant on Media, Segun Tomori, the minister stated that Tinubu’s life journey is truly a testament to God’s faithfulness and grace.

    The Leader of the Senate, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, in a statement by his Directorate of Media and Public Affairs, described Tinubu as a courageous reformer and fearless patriot.

    ​  

    *Babangida, Akpabio, Abbas, govs, CDS, Keyamo, others eulogise Tinubu Deji Elumoye, Linus Aleke, Folalumi Alaran in Abuja, Chinedu Eze in Lagos, and Ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja Former President Muhammadu Buhari

    Amaechi: Tinubu Trying to Scare Govs Who May Not Support Him in 2027

    Amaechi: Tinubu Trying to Scare Govs Who May Not Support Him in 2027

    *Says feud between Fubara, Wike about money sharing 

    *Suspended governor, ex-HoS, wife clash over state assembly bombing

    Chuks Okocha in Abuja and Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

    A former Minister of Transportation, Mr. Rotimi Amaechi, has alleged that President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of emergency rule in Rivers State was a ploy to intimidate governors to support his re-election bid in 2027.
    Amaechi, who is a former governor of the state also stated that the disagreement between the suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara, and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, was about money sharing.
    This is just as the drama in the politics of the state has continued despite the declaration of a state of emergency in the state as Fubara; the former Head of Service (HoS) in the state, Dr George Nwaeke; and his wife, Florence Nwaeke clashed over the former HoS’ allegation that the suspended governor masterminded the bombing of the Rivers House of Assembly complex in 2023.
    Speaking yesterday in an interview with DW Africa, Amaechi insisted that the emergency rule imposed on the state by President Tinubu was unconstitutional.
    Amaechi argued that the president’s move has instilled fear in governors, “that if you are not careful, the president will remove you”.
    He added that Fubara has “no security responsibility” over the Rivers State crisis and that the suspended governor was being punished for an offence he “did not commit”.
    “It is between the president and the FCT minister. The president wants a power grab. They want to frighten governors who may not support them in 2027. So, there is a rumour everywhere that if you are not careful, the president will remove you,” the former Rivers governor said.
    “If the president said it is because of insecurity because they blew the pipeline, what about parts of the country where there is insecurity? Is the president saying they should impose an emergency rule on him too? They can’t because he is a democratically elected president. Nobody can impose an emergency rule on him because there is serious insecurity in the North-east, North-west — even in South-east and South-west.
    “Rivers State governor has no security responsibility; it rests squarely on the president. So why punish a man who did not commit an offence?” Amaechi queried.
    He called on the residents of the state to “resist the president”, adding that the resistance should be done “by democratically protesting against the president”.
    On the feud between Fubara and Wike, the former governor said it is all about money sharing.
    He said: “The fight between the current governor of Rivers State and the FCT minister is about sharing money. If not, what is the quarrel?  Nigerians don’t dislike corruption anymore. I’ve not seen anybody on the street querying what the problem is. Can both of them speak to the public and tell us what the problem is?
    “We are now denied democracy. Rivers State is the only state in the country currently not enjoying democracy. They have imposed military rule on us.
    “Secondly, the president acted outside the Constitution. Section 188 states how a governor can leave office, either by death, resignation, or impeachment. It didn’t say that one day you wake up and a man called the president of Nigeria will throw you out of office, which makes democracy unstable.”
    The former minister stressed that the president had a hand in Rivers’ situation because he wanted to wield power by ousting governors who may not support him in the 2027 general election.

    Suspended Governor, Ex-HoS, Wife Clash over State Assembly Bombing

    Meanwhile, the former HoS, Dr Nwaeke, on Friday accused the suspended governor of masterminding the destruction of the state assembly complex and the bombing of the Trans Niger Pipeline in Bodo, Gokana Local Government Area and subsequent attack on the oil pipeline in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni LGA, all in the state.
    But a few hours after the former HoS’ interview went viral, his wife, Florence raised the alarm over the safety of her husband, whom she said was invited to Abuja by a friend.
    In a viral video, Mrs Nwaeke alleged that some powerful politicians asked her husband to implicate Fubara, in a N15 billion fraud.
    She insinuated that her husband made the statements credited to him under duress.
    She said her husband had earlier informed her that he resigned because some people brought documents to him where he was asked to implicate the suspended governor in a financial fraud.
    However, Mrs Nwaeke was said to be under duress to retract her initial statement on how her husband was allegedly invited to Abuja and forced to accuse the suspended governor of the N15 billion scam.
    But in a new twist, Nwaeke has denied the claims by his wife that he was kidnapped.
    Nwaeke stated that contrary to her assertion, he is safe in Abuja where he had gone to voluntarily report himself to security agencies over developments in Rivers State.
    In a video released in the early hours of yesterday, the former HoS, who claimed to be TRANSCORP in Abuja, dismissed his wife’s claim as false, stressing that she had been misled and given a script to read.
    In a swift reaction to the HoS’ allegations, Fubara, through his Chief of Staff, said the former HoS was compromised, stressing that his allegation was aimed at fulfilling Nwaeke’s promise to those who may have paid or coerced him to lie against the governor.
    Fubara, also in a statement he personally signed, countered Nwaeke’s allegations.
    Fubara said: “First, on the claim that he was aware of my discussions and plans to support Bala Mohammed’s alleged 2027 presidential bid, it is laughable that Dr. Nwaeke would be part of any high-level political meeting as Head of Service, much more sitting in my alleged night meetings with Bala Mohammed and militants as he claimed. However, none of such meetings were ever held.
    “The truth is that the whole world knew when the Bauchi State Governor, as Chairman of Peoples Democratic Party Governors Forum, visited the state, and there was nothing secret about the visits”.
    Fubara stated: “It is also ludicrous for Dr. Nwaeke to claim that he was aware of my meetings to encourage attacks on oil pipelines and other national assets in the state, as there was no time, I held any meeting with militants or any criminal group to destabilise the state. It is on record that I have been at the forefront preaching peace in the state even in the face of obvious provocations”.
    He explained: “The truth is that Dr. Nwaeke has been compromised, and whatever he is saying is only aimed at fulfilling his promise to those who may have paid or coerced him to lie against me”.

    Meanwhile, the federal commissioner representing the South-South geopolitical zone in the National Population Commission (NPC), Professor Itotenaan Henry Ogiri, who was accused by Mrs Nwaeke of inviting her husband to Abuja, has denied the allegations.  
    In a statement, Ogiri said: “Of note is the fact that the woman in the viral video was accusing me of putting a call from Abuja across to her husband and had asked that the husband come over to Abuja so we can discuss some certain matters. She even alleged that I offered to pay for her husband’s flight ticket. (Who is supposed to pay for whose ticket?).
    He said: “While Dr George Nwaeke is my friend and a professional colleague, we have only spoken once since I left the Rivers State cabinet in November 2023. I think that should be late last year or early this year.”
    He stated that he has not spoken with Dr Nwaeke since the Supreme Court judgment on the state. 

    ​  

    *Says feud between Fubara, Wike about money sharing  *Suspended governor, ex-HoS, wife clash over state assembly bombing Chuks Okocha in Abuja and Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt A former Minister

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