By Opeyemi Alade

Corruption in Nigeria extends far beyond bribery and monetary gratification, as it has permit all sectors in the society, this was the focus of discussion on today’s edition of StandPoint, hosted on Emirate 98.5 FM, Ilorin.

The programme featured two public affairs analysts, Mallam Sakariyau Abiodun Yitta, a Senior Lecturer in the Department of History at the Kwara State College of Education, Ilorin, and Dr. Akeem Ayanda Araba, a Lecturer in the Department of Politics and Governance at the Kwara State University, Malete.

Opeyemi Alade who monitored the programme revealed that Mallam Yitta explained that corruption should not be narrowed to bribery alone. According to him, corruption is now pervasive and manifests in all areas of life.

He explained further that any act where a person fails to do what is right and due, at the right time and in the right way, amounts to corruption. He cited examples such as absenteeism and lateness to work, abuse of office, diversion of public funds, examination malpractice, and the compromise of standards in both public and private establishments.

On his part, Dr. Araba noted that many Nigerians mistakenly believe corruption is only about money. He stressed that it goes beyond monetary terms to include abuse of power and neglect of duty.

He also lamented that the level of corruption in the country is currently high and has continued to undermine national development, weaken institutions and erode public trust.

He concluded that for corruption to be effectively curbed in Nigeria, there must be a deliberate effort to put the right, competent and truthful people in leadership positions at all levels of governance.

They further called on citizens to take ownership of the fight against corruption by demanding accountability and refusing to celebrate ill-gotten wealth.