By Ahmad Shuaibu Isa
Corruption undeniably undermines development in Nigeria by diverting resources intended for public services, leaving citizens deprived of basic necessities. It perpetuates inequality, where the powerful thrive while the impoverished suffer.
This corrosive force weakens institutions, erodes trust in governance, and stalls national progress. It stifles innovation and economic growth by discouraging investment and increasing the cost of doing business. As Nigerians, we must strive for a better future through all legal and legitimate means at our disposal.
Likewise, Africa must confront corruption head-on to establish transparent, accountable systems that foster prosperity and social justice for all.
It is crucial that we understand the dynamics at play within our nation. A small, powerful elite in Nigeria wields disproportionate power, making political and economic decisions that primarily serve their own interests, often at the expense of the wider population. This group controls critical resources and wealth, shaping policies that favour their needs while leaving the majority without access to opportunities. Those who dare to challenge this system are often silenced.
While the arrest of former NHIS boss Usman Yusuf for alleged N4 billion fraud could be viewed as a significant development, we must question whether this action is truly driven by a desire to combat corruption, or if it is linked to his outspoken criticism of the government. Yusuf’s previous remarks on government incompetence, insecurity in the North, and the deep-rooted corruption plaguing Nigeria suggest that his arrest may, in fact, be politically motivated rather than a result of a genuine legal process.
Is this truly an isolated case of financial mismanagement, or is it a calculated attempt to target an individual who has dared to challenge the entrenched power structures? In a nation where corruption pervades all levels of government, such questions are not only valid but necessary. Is this pursuit of justice, or yet another example of the system silencing those who speak out? Only time will reveal the truth.
For Nigeria to break free from the shackles of corruption, we must not only address the systemic rot within our institutions but also ensure that those who speak the truth are protected, rather than persecuted. If we are to create a just and prosperous society, it is essential that we dismantle the oligarchic structures that foster inequality and stifle progress. Only then can Nigeria fulfil its true potential, and lead Africa towards a future of fairness, accountability, and sustainable development.
Ahmad Shuaibu Isa