By Isah Aliyu Chiroma
“There can be no faith in government if our highest offices are excused from scrutiny — they should be setting the example of transparency.”
— Edward Snowden.
Nigerians were amused with the decision taken by the president, to tackle the endemic corruption in our society. This perennial challenge faced by nations across the globe poses a significant threat to the fabric of democracy. In democratic societies where governance is predicated on the principles of transparency, accountability, and public participation, the insidious influence of corruption can undermine the very foundations of the system.
A multidimensional and ongoing effort involving institutional strengthening, civic involvement, legal reforms, and a culture shift towards ethical governance is needed to combat corruption in a democratic government.
Fighting corruption requires a strong legal system. Tougher anti-corruption legislation, efficient enforcement strategies, and unbiased legal procedures are necessary. Strong punishments for violators and mechanisms for the investigation and prosecution of corrupt practices must be part of the legislative armory. Legislative bodies are essential in creating and modifying laws to deal with new issues and bridge any gaps that could be used by anyone who want to commit corrupt acts.
The government’s ability to combat corruption depends on the quality of its institutions. Independent anti-corruption organizations, such anti-corruption commissions like the EFCC and ICPC, need to be given the authority, autonomy, and resources necessary to properly look into and prosecute cases of corruption. These organizations ought to be free from political meddling and run transparently.
The structures we are currently running require reformation. Recent events that enfold have shown how the chairman of one of the bodies is suspended and the subject of an investigation. How can those bodies bring the offenders before the law if those bodies are not meticulously reformed?
Regulating agencies and financial institutions are essential in the fight against corruption. A comprehensive anti-corruption plan includes strengthening these organizations and making sure they are able to identify and discourage unlawful financial activities.
A strong and active civil society can be a powerful tool against corruption. It is crucial to inform the public about the negative impacts of corruption and their responsibility to hold elected leaders accountable. As watchdogs, civil society organizations, the media, and community groups examine government acts and draw attention to corrupt behaviors.
Increasing public access to information and open data projects can help create a more transparent government and encourage citizen participation in governance. This will not only give them access to information, but the curse in which the government is driving to.
A cultural shift toward ethical governance is required to combat corruption. Leaders ought to lead by example, exhibiting a steadfast dedication to morality and decency. An ethical foundation for government is created in part by instituting codes of ethics for public servants, highlighting the importance of honesty and responsibility, and encouraging a transparent society.
Another important role that educational institutions can play is in forming the values of future leaders. Early exposure to anti-corruption education promotes ethical consciousness and a sense of responsibility in students. This will help prepare them for the future as the leaders.
Technology offers strong instruments in the digital era to improve transparency and decrease corruption chances. Digital financial systems, e-government programs, and online public procurement platforms will help to reduce the likelihood of corruption. Block chain technology has the potential to improve the integrity of government documents and financial transactions because of its transparent and unchangeable ledger.
Technology will also help citizens become more involved by providing them with online platforms to report corruption and keep an eye on government actions. Through the use of web portals and mobile applications, corrupt practices may be reported in real time, enabling citizens to take an active role in the fight against corruption.
Fighting corruption is a continual process that calls for constant assessment and modification. The anti-corruption strategy should be kept current and successful by routine audits of anti-corruption initiatives, evaluations of institutional efficacy, and reaction to new issues.
Reducing corruption requires a concerted, long-term effort and is a common duty. An effective anti-corruption strategy must include legal reforms, institutional strengthening, citizen participation, cultural transformation, technical innovation. Respecting the values of openness, responsibility, and moral leadership protects the democratic ideals that are the cornerstone of communities devoted to the welfare and prosperity of their members.
We need to design a system of transparency and accountability that will work for us. This is a continuous process, not a short print, but a marathon. This will not only help in curbing corruption, but if culprits are punished, then this will set example for anyone intending towards that act.
