President of the Nigerian Bar Association, Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN has called on the National Judicial Council (NJC) to set up mechanisms with which to audit the lifestyle of judicial officers who are living above their means.
Responding to questions at a press conference to mark the 2024 International Anti-Corruption Day, Osigwe noted that while Nigeria’s judiciary might not be whistle-clean, the situation is not as bad as it is being portrayed.
He however urged the NJC to rev up its investigatory and disciplinary process and weed out the bad pollutants among hard-working judges.
Asserting there are no pretences about the judiciary not being much different from the larger Nigerian society, he also counselled that the NJC should be less insular but more open about their operations.
The NBA President in his statement described corruption as “a complex phenomenon ranging from fraud, embezzlement, illicit financial flows, administrative malfeasance, mismanagement of Public resources, absence of transparency and impunity in public service.”
He further stated: “It is undoubtedly the most potent threat to governance and development as it undermines democracy, creates unstable governments, sets countries back economically and can inappropriately affect the poorest and most marginalized people. Notably, our nation has been the base of corrupt practices ranging from budget padding, rampant kidnapping and illicit enrichment of public officials.
“This year’s theme is a very vital as the fight against corruption is not solely the burden of Policy makers, activists and enforcement agencies but the future of integrity rests in large part on the shoulders of today’s youths. The digital revolution has both amplified the reach of corruption and simultaneously created powerful tools to combat it.
“Digital natives are uniquely positioned to harness technology and accountability. Their innate understanding of social media , data analysis and online platforms can be leveraged to expose corrupt practices, monitor government spending and promote ethical leadership.
“The role of youths in combating corruption goes far beyond mere technological prowess and their crucial assets are often overlooked.
“They also harbor deep seated desire for fairer, more just societies, a world free from the suffocating grip of corruption. This idealism when channeled effectively becomes a potent force for change.
“As a body whose sole mandate is to uphold the rule of law, we must therefore join the international community to actively engage the youths in combating the ills of corruption and this means;
- Empowering them with the requisite Knowledge by providing comprehensive education on the impact of corruption and mechanisms for reporting it. This sort of engagement must be accessible and tailored to their understanding.
- Creating platforms for participations and establishing youth led anti corruption initiatives, providing mentorship opportunities and encouraging their active involvement in civic engagement. Their voices must be heard not just listened to.
- Fostering collaboration, building bridges between youth organizations government agencies, civil society groups and the private sector to create a unified front against corruption.
- Recognizing and rewarding their contributions, demonstrating that their efforts matter and that they are making a tangible difference.
“The NBA calls for all sectors to put hands together and move with one strong force against corruption as we unite with the youths to equip them with the knowledge, platforms and encouragement they need to become the vanguard of a new era of transparency, accountability and ethical leadership.
“As lawyers and stakeholders in Nigeria, we all face some form of corruption in our dealings but we may have discounted the consequences of it in order to “get things done”. So even the legal profession is not free of this ill. The promotion of rule of law which the NBA is committed to and the economic development of Nigeria can only survive in an environment devoid of corruption.
“This world observance of an International event on corruption, reaffirms the people from all classes and various parts of the globe that a corruption free society is possible if we work in union. It fosters the courage to speak up against corruption rather than becoming silent prey to its effects.
“We therefore enjoin and encourage every Nigerian and our brother Bar associations around the world to take affirmative steps to support the legal profession and unite with the Youths in combating corruption.
“Bar associations should consider the ways in which they can provide guidance and technical assistance to support young lawyers in their jurisdiction who wish to take affirmative action in fighting corruption.”
