Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, has called on Nigerian leaders to introspect and steer clear of corruption to foster national development.

In a post commemorating the 2024 International Anti-Corruption Day, Obi lamented Nigeria’s low ranking on the corruption perception index, where it is positioned 145th out of 180 countries. He emphasized that tackling corruption is crucial for meaningful progress.

“Corruption has brought Nigeria to its knees economically and socially, as noted by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC). It is, indeed, the bane of our national development,” Obi stated.

Highlighting systemic issues, Obi pointed out budgeting irregularities, misappropriation of public funds, contract inflation, and abuse of public office. He further noted that these malpractices have not only hampered good governance but also positioned Nigeria among the 11 worst-governed African nations in the last decade.

Obi urged anti-graft agencies to focus on addressing pressing corruption issues such as oil theft, budget padding, and political bribery, insisting that offenders must face stringent consequences.

“A day like this provides us the opportunity to search our consciences as leaders and eschew all forms of corrupt practices that pervade our leadership positions. As followers, we must also stand against corruption in all forms for our national interest,” Obi added.

He reiterated his commitment to reducing corruption, asserting, “In any nation where leaders are not corrupt, corruption reduces by over 60%, making the remaining efforts more manageable.”