Social Norms: Mitigating the Harmful, Amplifying the Helpful in the Fight Against Corruption

Statement by Comrade Dr. Ibrahim M. Zikirullahi, Executive Director, Resource Centre for Human Rights & Civic Education (CHRICED) at Statewide Consultative Meeting on Fostering Transparency, Accountability and Citizens Participation in the Service Delivery of Constituency Project in Nigeria held on September 11, 2024 at Aminu Kano Centre for Democratic Studies (Mambayya House), Gwamaja, Kano-City, Kano State.

Protocol
The Chairman of this Occasion, Deputy Vice Chancellor, Bayero University Kano, Prof. Muhammad Sani Gumel
The Special guest of honour, Dr. Kole Ahmed Shettima, Director, Africa Office, MacArthur Foundation
Our esteemed Guest Speaker, the Executive Chairman of EFCC, Mr. Ola Olukayode
Our respected development partners,
Distinguished invited guests, ladies and gentlemen of the Press.

It is with immense pleasure that I welcome you at this Stakeholders Consultative Meeting on Fostering Transparency, Accountability, and Citizen Participation in the Service Delivery of Constituency Projects in Nigeria. I am truly grateful that each of you has taken the time to travel from various locations to be part of this important gathering. Your presence here today underscores the collective commitment we share towards addressing the pressing issues that our nation faces.

As we engage in discussions surrounding development, it is evident that Nigeria is confronting numerous challenges that require our immediate attention and concerted efforts. Among these challenges is poverty, which continues to afflict a substantial portion of our population, leaving many without access to basic necessities. Malnutrition remains a critical concern, particularly among vulnerable groups such as children and pregnant women, leading to long-term health implications that hinder our nation’s progress.

Furthermore, the alarming rates of maternal and child mortality highlight the urgent need for improved healthcare services and support systems. The scourge of forced child begging is a heartbreaking reality that reflects the broader socio-economic issues at play, robbing children of their childhood and potential. In addition, widespread insecurity, manifested through insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, and other forms of violence, has created an environment of fear and instability, further exacerbating the challenges we face.

Human trafficking is another grave issue that demands our attention, as it not only violates the rights of individuals but also undermines the social fabric of our communities. The soaring inflation rates have placed immense pressure on families, making it increasingly difficult for them to meet their daily needs. Coupled with low school enrollment rates, these factors contribute to a high number of out-of-school children, depriving them of the education and opportunities they deserve.

These issues are merely a few indicators of the broader development crisis facing our nation. At the core of these challenges lies the pervasive corruption that affects every aspect of our national life. Corruption erodes trust in public institutions, diverts resources meant for development, and stifles the potential for meaningful progress. It is imperative that we confront this issue head-on, fostering a culture of transparency and accountability that empowers citizens and ensures that resources are utilized effectively for the benefit of all.

As a platform of active citizens campaigning for the promotion of human rights, democratic governance and accountable use of public resources, CHRICED is always concerned about how public resources can be used for the benefit of the of most citizens. We have always agonized about the paradox of how blessed Nigeria is, yet the people of this country wallow in poverty, misery and extreme deprivation. In fact, one of the major tragedies of our country is the fact that since the advent of the current democratic dispensation in 1999, trillions of Naira of public resources spent by governments at all levels have not translated to a better life for the people.

Our organization is deeply committed to raising awareness and fostering dialogue around critical issues, as we believe that a well-informed and active citizenry is essential for the progress of any society. We recognize that the effective management of resources is not merely a matter of financial allocation; it is fundamentally about ensuring that the needs and rights of the people are prioritized. Unfortunately, we have long grappled with a stark contradiction that plagues Nigeria: the nation is endowed with abundant natural and human resources, yet this wealth stands in stark contrast to the widespread poverty, suffering, and severe deprivation that many of its citizens endure daily.

This paradox is not just an economic issue; it is a profound social injustice that affects the very fabric of our society. The reality is that despite Nigeria’s vast wealth, a significant portion of the population continues to live in conditions that are far below acceptable standards. Access to basic necessities such as clean water, healthcare, education, and adequate housing remains a distant dream for many. This situation raises critical questions about governance, accountability, and the ethical responsibilities of those in power.

Respected guests, ladies and gentlemen, one of the numerous government initiatives that could have facilitated development and fostered a sense of community among citizens while providing access to essential public resources is the zonal intervention project. This initiative, at both federal and state levels, was designed with the noble intention of addressing the specific needs of various constituencies, much like the renowned Marshall Plan of the United States, which successfully revitalized war-torn Europe by delivering targeted developmental assistance.

The constituency project holds immense promise; it possesses the potential to deliver developmental initiatives directly to the grassroots, ensuring that the benefits of governance reach those who need them most. Imagine a scenario where politicians, in collaboration with local communities, effectively implemented the service delivery envisioned through these constituency projects. We could have witnessed the establishment of essential infrastructure such as well-maintained rural roads that connect remote areas to urban centers, small-scale industries that empower local entrepreneurs and create jobs, healthcare facilities that provide accessible medical services to underserved populations, and recreational areas that promote community well-being and social cohesion. The possibilities are vast and transformative.

However, it is with great regret that I must highlight the stark reality we face today. Since Nigeria’s transition back to civil governance, the constituency project framework has been profoundly undermined by a pervasive culture of corruption, inefficiency, and a glaring lack of accountability. What should have been the result of democratic processes and active community engagement has instead been exploited, transforming these projects into mere avenues for politicians to enrich themselves at the expense of the very citizens they are meant to serve.

The mismanagement and diversion of funds intended for these projects have not only stifled development but have also eroded public trust in our political institutions. Communities that should have benefited from vital infrastructure and services are left in a state of neglect, while the promise of progress remains unfulfilled. This betrayal of public trust is a disservice to the democratic ideals we hold dear and a barrier to the collective advancement of our society.

As we reflect on the potential of constituency projects, we must also confront the urgent need for reform. It is imperative that we advocate for greater transparency, accountability, and community involvement in the planning and execution of these initiatives. By empowering citizens to take an active role in the decision-making process, we can ensure that constituency projects truly reflect the needs and aspirations of the communities they are intended to serve.

At CHRICED, we assert the necessity of holding our leaders accountable and insisting that public resources are administered in line with the values of equity, justice, and human dignity. We promote policies and practices that focus on the well-being of the most disadvantaged members of society, guaranteeing that every individual has the chance to prosper. Our mission is to enable individuals and communities to participate actively in the democratic process, confront injustices, and collaborate towards a future where the wealth of our society is equitably utilized for the benefit of all.

Therefore, we believe that despite the enormous challenges facing our country, it is imperative for us, as active citizens, to see this crisis as an opportunity for growth. The responsibility lies with us, as members of various communities, organizations, professional associations, and influential leaders, to advocate tirelessly for a democratic process that enhances the quality of life for millions of our people. This means actively participating in discussions, raising awareness about critical issues, and mobilizing our networks to push for meaningful change. We must harness our collective power to demand transparency, accountability, and integrity from our elected and appointed political office holders and institutions.

Nevertheless, regardless of the effectiveness of our campaigns or advocacy efforts to address these issues, if not checked, corruption at all levels will continue to undermine our initiatives. Corruption erodes trust in public institutions, diverts resources away from essential services, and perpetuates inequality. It creates an environment where the voices of the marginalized are silenced, and where the needs of the many are overshadowed by the interests of a few. Therefore, it is crucial to recognize that combating corruption is not solely the government’s duty. It is a shared responsibility that requires the active participation of every citizen.

In our neighborhoods, towns, cities, workplaces, and homes, if we choose to remain passive regarding the issue of corruption, we will inevitably face the ongoing consequences of poor development indicators that we currently experience. This passivity allows corruption to fester, leading to a cycle of disillusionment and apathy. We must understand that our silence and inaction contribute to the perpetuation of a system that prioritizes personal gain over the common good.

To break this cycle, we must cultivate a culture of accountability and integrity within our communities. This involves not only holding our leaders accountable but also examining our own behaviors and practices. We can start by promoting ethical standards in our workplaces, supporting local initiatives that prioritize transparency, and encouraging open dialogue about the impact of corruption on our daily lives.

Moreover, we should leverage technology and social media to amplify our voices and connect with like-minded individuals who share our commitment to fighting corruption. By sharing information, resources, and strategies, we can create a powerful movement that demands change and fosters a sense of solidarity among citizens.

In conclusion, while the challenges we face are enormous, they also present us with a unique opportunity to come together as engaged citizens. By recognizing our role in combating corruption and actively participating in the democratic process, we can work towards a future where integrity and accountability are the cornerstones of our society. Let us not shy away from this responsibility, but rather embrace it as an essential aspect of our civic engagement.

Permit me to take this opportunity to extend my sincere appreciation to our esteemed guest speaker, Mr. Ola Olukayode, the Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). We are truly grateful that he has graciously set aside time from his demanding schedule to accept our invitation to address the critical topic of “Imperatives of Community-Driven Anti-corruption Fight: Enhancing Constituency Project Service Delivery in Nigeria”. His insights and expertise in this area are invaluable, and we are honored to have him share his knowledge with us today.

Finally, I would like to convey our profound gratitude to the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation. The Foundation’s unwavering commitment to building a just and verdant world has seen it support worthy initiatives that advance the rights, welfare, and overall well-being of peoples across the world. Their commitment to social justice and equity has made a remarkable impact, and we are fortunate to have their support in our efforts to combat corruption and enhance service delivery in our communities.

I also wish to express my heartfelt thanks to the Board of Directors and Staff of CHRICED whose tireless efforts have propelled the organization to become a leading advocate for democratic and accountable governance in Nigeria.

Thank you for listening, as I wish you happy deliberation.