The Senator representing Borno South Senatorial District, Ali Ndume, has expressed renewed concerns over the persistent issue of corruption in Nigeria, lamenting that the country continues to celebrate individuals who embezzle public funds.
Ndume made these remarks during an interactive session with journalists in Kano on Sunday.
In his address, Ndume highlighted how societal values have contributed to the normalisation of ill-gotten wealth in Nigeria, a situation he finds deeply troubling.
He expressed dismay that public officials who engage in corrupt practices are often unchallenged and, in many cases, even praised for their riches.
“It is unfortunate that in Nigeria, those who steal public funds are not questioned. Instead, they are admired for their wealth,” Ndume remarked.
The senator further compared Nigeria’s situation to that of developed nations, noting that while wealth is scrutinised abroad, it is admired without question in Nigeria.
He criticised how the ostentatious display of sudden wealth is often met with admiration rather than suspicion, a trend he believes is fuelling corruption across the country.
“In developed nations, people are quick to question the source of someone’s wealth, but here in Nigeria, those who flaunt ill-gotten wealth are venerated,” Ndume stated.
The Borno senator also revealed that his previous efforts to introduce legislation aimed at addressing unexplained wealth in Nigeria have been unsuccessful.
He lamented the absence of a legal framework that could proactively or reactively tackle the scourge of corruption, which he described as the country’s major challenge.
“Our major challenge in this country is corruption. Up till now, we have no law that can proactively or even reactively address the issue,” Ndume said, expressing frustration over the lack of progress in the fight against corruption.
In addition to corruption, Ndume also called attention to the pressing issue of hunger in Nigeria, urging both the government and citizens to prioritise agriculture as a means of combating food insecurity.
He emphasised the need for urgent action, noting that improving the agricultural sector could significantly reduce the hunger crisis affecting millions of Nigerians.
“The government and the people must work together to prioritise agriculture. It’s the key to tackling hunger and ensuring food security in our country,” the senator advised.
Ndume’s comments come at a time when Nigeria continues to grapple with widespread corruption, which many believe is hindering the nation’s development.
His renewed call for action serves as a reminder of the critical need to address corruption in order to create a more transparent and accountable system of governance.
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