AS we commemorate International Anti-Corruption Day 2024, it's worth taking a moment to reflect: What does your 2024 (anti) corruption diary look like? Is it filled with stories of accountability, where justice was served, or is it overshadowed by unchecked impunity, where corruption scandals quietly disappeared?
For us at HEDA Resource Centre, a leading anti-corruption civil society organization with 23 years of unwavering impact, this question is not just a thought exercise. Each year, we compile our Annual Compendium of 100 High-Profile Corruption Cases in Nigeria, a stark reminder of the realities we face. This year, as we unveil the 8th Edition of our compendium on this significant day, we hold up a mirror to our society's ongoing struggle —or reluctance—to confront corruption.
A Year of Paradoxes
2024 has been a year defined by contradictions. On one hand, we saw courageous investigative journalists and whistleblowers exposing corruption in the highest places. Take, for example, the case of Wale Adedayo, the embattled Ijebu East Local Government Chairman, who accused Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun of withholding local government funds. Or consider Fisayo Soyombo’s revealing exposé on systemic corruption within the Nigeria Customs Service at the borders.
The media was awash with reports of embezzlement, procurement fraud, and abuse of power. The case involving the former Governor of Kogi State and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) was just one of many that caught public attention. Across various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), stories of misappropriated funds and betrayal of public trust continued to surface, undermining Nigeria's progress and development. These cases, and many others, are documented in detail in HEDA’s compendium.
Yet, despite these revelations, justice often feels out of reach. Prosecutions drag on indefinitely, convictions are rare, and cases seem to disappear into the labyrinth of adjournments and delays. Public trust in the judiciary continues to erode. How do we ensure that our 2024 diary doesn’t close with yet another chapter of impunity?
HEDA Compendium: More Than Just Documentation
At HEDA, we know that the fight against corruption requires more than just recording these cases. It demands relentless advocacy, institutional reform, and active public participation. Our compendium isn’t merely a catalogue of wrongdoing; it’s a call to action. Each case represents a chance for the judiciary to affirm its commitment to integrity and for society to demand accountability. When justice is served, it sets a powerful precedent. When it isn’t, it sets a dangerous norm.
As we unveil the 8th Edition of our compendium, available on HEDA’s website, we hope it serves as a rallying cry for all Nigerians. These cases must not be left to gather dust on courtroom shelves. Civil society groups, the media, and citizens must unite to ensure that investigations lead to convictions and that stolen resources are recovered and returned for the public good.
A Future We Can Rewrite
As we look forward to 2025, the power to change this narrative lies within us. Imagine a diary where corruption cases conclude with swift and fair justice. Imagine a society where whistleblowers are protected, not punished or silenced—as happened to Wale Adedayo in his clash with Governor Dapo Abiodun. Picture public officials thinking twice before betraying the trust placed in them.
This vision isn’t utopian. It is achievable if we all commit to playing our part.
At HEDA Resource Centre, we remain steadfast in our mission to hold power to account and ensure that the fight against corruption yields tangible results. Our compendium is more than a book of cases, it’s a testament that corruption can be challenged and that justice, though delayed, should never be denied.
As you reflect on your 2024 diary, ask yourself: What did I do to fight corruption this year? More importantly, what will I do differently in 2025? Let’s ensure that next year’s diary is one we can look back on with pride and a diary filled with accountability, integrity, and justice.
Nurudeen Salako is a Communication Officer at HEDA Resource Centre and a Development Advocate. He can be reached at [email protected].
