
Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume, representing Borno South in the National Assembly, has voiced deep frustration over the persistent corruption plaguing Nigeria. Speaking during a media briefing in Kano on Sunday, the senator highlighted how corrupt practices have become entrenched in society, with those who engage in theft often celebrated instead of being held accountable.
Ndume lamented that despite corruption being a major challenge, Nigeria still lacks effective laws to combat it. "Our major challenge in this country is corruption. Up till now, we have no law that can proactively or reactively address the issue of corruption," he stated.
The senator further expressed dismay at the public’s acceptance of corrupt individuals, especially in political circles. He pointed out that many are revered in their communities for their ill-gotten wealth, a behavior he described as alarming.
"If you see somebody in politics or government who is not corrupt, it’s because he is lucky to be God-fearing. Otherwise, it is only in Nigeria that you steal money, walk freely, and are celebrated," Ndume remarked.
He added, "If someone suddenly becomes wealthy, buying cars and jets after having no money just the week before, their community celebrates them, saying, ‘Allah has blessed our son.’ Even though they know the money was stolen, they still prostrate before the person."
Ndume also shared his past efforts to address unexplained wealth through legislation, efforts that were met with resistance. According to the senator, even a former head of state refused to sign an executive bill aimed at tackling the issue.
"Up till now, there is no law on unexplained wealth in Nigeria, nor is there an Executive Order addressing it," he said, underscoring the need for stricter laws to hold public officials accountable.
In addition to corruption, Ndume expressed concern over widespread hunger in the country, urging both the government and citizens to utilize Nigeria’s abundant arable land for food production. "There is hunger in the land, and up till now, we have not cultivated even five per cent of our land," he warned, emphasizing the need for greater agricultural development.
Ndume's comments have reignited the conversation about Nigeria’s struggle with corruption and the urgent need for reforms to curb the growing menace.
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