Opinion

The Many Faces Of Corruption

Published

10 years ago

May 9, 2016

That corruption is pervasive in Nigeria is no longer news. The menace has almost become a pastime, a daily routine in the country. Although the menace is as old as the country itself, the rate of its prevalence is such alarming that if we do not do something to kill corruption in Nigeria, corruption will kill us.
But how do we come about this menace of corruption? What constitutes and what propels corruption? These are two of the questions I want to address in this piece, with a view to getting to the root cause of corruption in our country.
My first answer is over prioritization of money.
Money has been unduly prioritized in Nigeria. Money is worshiped like a god, people no longer worry about the source through which money is made, the only thing that matters is that money has been made. This is why an individual can vanish from his community in poverty only to re-appear in affluence to the exhilarations of his people who will never pause to ask questions on how the individual met sudden wealth. Rather, the individual will be bathed with different kinds of chieftaincy accolades like Eze Omemma 1. Onwanetiriora 1, Omego 1etc. The feeling that money is everything does not help matters either. Before now, there were people who commanded great respect in our societies even when they were not wealthy but because of their vocation or great initiatives.
The absence or non-implementation of strong punishments against those found guilty of corrupt practices also constitutes a huge motivation for intending ones. The cases of Abacha, Tafa Balogun and Patricia Etteh are good examples. A situation where someone has been found guilty of stealing the country’s funds and the same person remains as free as any other man is absurd. Why will others who have access to public funds not try their own luck? This is why we are going nowhere in the anti-corruption crusade.
Another factor is poor remuneration. When people are not adequately rewarded, when they cannot meet up with basic family demands, the option becomes a search for additional income through unwholesome strategies. This is what makes a man ask for tips before files can move, or before gate can be opened. It is very important for employers to pay realistic wage that can really take workers home.
Also, the ways and manners retirees are treated in this country is devoid of respect and regards for their contributions while in service. Their pensions are left unpaid or months or years. When eventually paid, they will be made to travel through miles and possibly spend a reasonable part of the money on transit. When those who are still in active service see what their colleagues go through, they are compelled to make hay while the sun shines. The victim of this haymaking becomes public funds.
Another burning condition that has ignited corruption in Nigeria is the ways recruitments are made. There are over emphasis on the impossibles; a typical recruitment advert in Nigeria will read as follows – our organization is in search of young, vibrant, intelligent and energetic graduate to fill our vacant position. The person must not be more than 20 years of age, must have a minimum of 5 years post NYSC cognate experience and he/she must e a member of at least two professional bodies. Now come to think of it, considering the Nigerian factors, how is it possible that anyone can truly meet these conditions? The alternative becomes forgery and falsifications; this practice is then continued in other spheres of the individual’s life.
Therefore we need to be realistic in giving conditions because we do not have many Nigerians yet who graduate from higher education at any age less than 20 years. All these are serious factors that stare the Nigerian job seekers on the face, and those who may not wish to falsify document are no job candidates anywhere. So, what should they do to survive in the absence of no job, no capital for business?
In any case, the existence of these conditions as presented does not mean that corruption should be left to prosper in the land unchecked. There is need to fight corruption to a standstill if our country must move forward. But I think one way of checking corruption is by institutionalizing whistle blowing. This action is sine qua non if the anti-corruption war must be won. The problem facing whistle blowing pose challenges in the field of law, sociology and ethics. A multidisciplinary approach would therefore be necessary for whistle blowing to be successfully institutionalized.
According to Rothschild and Miethe (1994), whistle blowing is the disclosure of illegal, unethical, or harmful practices in the workplace to parties who might take action; and this disclosure must be at public interest.
Klopper (1997), threw more light that these would entail information about criminal activities, a contravention of any statutory requirement, improper or unauthorized use of public and other funds, miscarriage of justice, abuse of power, maladministration, danger to health or safety of any individual and any other misbehaviour or malpractice.
National reorientation is yet a step that should be urgently introduced; this will serve as a proactive measure as against reactive. Nigerians have for long been living on what some people called the survival of the fittest – and – grab – whatever – comes – your – way – mentality. It is only when our values are corrected and behaviours modified that corruption can witness a good fight.
The kids-glove treatment meted out to corrupt Nigerians by the government and its law enforcement agencies constitutes a big motivation for others who contemplate being corrupted. This kind of treatment should as a matter of urgency be substituted by stronger punitive rewards to serve as deterrent for others. If corrupt people are treated like the armed robbers, at least most people will avoid it. However, this can only be possible in an environment where the rule of law is supreme, where checks and balance is a tradition, and separation of power is sincerely embraced.
It is also very important that anti-corruption agencies are not tied to the individuals that head them. Nigerians have penchant for hooking up the good or bad of government agencies on the leaders of such agencies; EFCC was like Ribadu’s private thing even when he was only discharging his statutory duties; the risks and benefits were made to look like his, and we made it look like there was no EFCC without Ribadu.
It is really high time we separated key players of government agencies from their positions because doing otherwise was a major factor that diminished the efforts of the EFCC under Ribadu as those prosecuted or chased about considered him their enemies and not the agency itself.
Finally, all the accounting bodies in the country like ICAN< ACA, ACPA etc should be granted a forum to brainstorm and find solution to the ease with which money is stolen through signature. It is only when we have better accounting standards; stricter auditing that stealing of public and private funds can be minimized.
Corruption, no doubt has caused colossal damage to this country; damage ranging from negative image globally to other internal ones like loss of money, eroding the values of honesty, integrity, hard work and law abiding which are hitherto perceived as traits of the slow, feeble minded, timid and unachievers. Corruption has created monsters in the form of wealthy people who contributed or contributes nothing to national development and national economy. In any case, Nigeria still has the chance of coming out of this mess. This calls for concerted involvement of all in the President Muhammadu Buhari, anti-corruption crusade.
If only all of us realizes the fact that every Nigerian has a right to live, a right to drink water, a right to use electricity, a right to accessible road network, then no one will wish to embezzle the money that is meant for all.
Orukwonwu is …………………..

Justin Orukwonwu

Opinion

Policy Intervention: More Than Administrative Reform

Published

4 days ago

January 19, 2026

The Tide

Quote:”This policy intervention proves that education reform is not just about administration, but about restoring dignity, equity, and integrity to the learning process.”

On September 24, 2025, the article” A Growing Emergency: How Marked-Up Textbooks Are Sabotaging Nigeria’s School Children”, written by King Onunwo, was published in The Tide Newspaper. In the said article, the writer expressed pains in what he viewed as ‘a silent but damaging practice’ taking root in homes across Nigeria, one that threatens the academic future of millions of children in primary and secondary schools. From the paintings of the writer, this seemingly minor convenience where older siblings complete their homeworks directly inside their school textbooks, may seem harmless on the surface. On the contrary, it is creating a dangerous ripple effect. What used to be a normal practice—siblings reusing textbooks year after year to ease the financial burden on families—has now turned into a nightmare. The writer could best describe its impact in our educational system as a stumbling block for students, and a ticking time bomb for the education system and to say the least, a source of distress for countless parents.

The core message of the article is that writing homework and classwork inside textbooks has evolved from a harmless household habit into a national educational crisis that is quietly undermining learning outcomes in Nigeria. Specifically, the article argues that: marked-up textbooks sabotage learning by denying younger students the opportunity to think independently, practice problem-solving, and engage meaningfully with lessons. Economic hardship has normalized textbook reuse, but misuse has turned a cost-saving strategy into an educational disadvantage. The problem is systemic, not merely individual, reflecting failures in policy enforcement, public awareness, and educational support structures. Hence, government’s intervention is urgently required, including regulations, awareness campaigns, textbook audits, penalties, and subsidized writing materials.

Violation of education equity was also fingered as children are academically punished due to circumstances beyond their control—birth order and family income. King Onunwo opined that small oversights can cause large-scale damage, and ignoring such “minor” issues threatens Nigeria’s broader educational goals. Ultimately, he called for a national textbook integrity policy to protect learning materials and ensure fairness in education. Deductively, the writer ‘s feelings and emotional tone conveyed a deep concern and alarm, repeatedly framing the issue as a “growing emergency,” “ticking time bomb,” and “quiet academic crisis.” which signals a genuine fear that the problem if unchecked, may have irreversible consequences.

The writer ‘s tone is outrightly that of an advocate, not a neutral observer, speaking with a strong sense of justice, emphasizing on education as a right, meaning that children should not be academically disadvantaged by family circumstances, hence, the need for society to protect educational tools.The repeated calls for “immediate,” “urgent,” and “no time to waste” action showed impatience with delays and excuses. The writer believes every academic term lost worsens the damage. It is not just about textbooks—it is about educational dignity, equality, and systemic responsibility. The closing metaphor (“the handwriting is on the wall”) reinforces the writer’s belief that the consequences are already visible and that failure to act would be inexcusable. By responding decisively to growing concerns around the misuse and rising cost of learning materials, the Federal Government has demonstrated that thoughtful advocacy still matters—and that public interest writing can indeed influence policy in meaningful ways.

The recently unveiled education policy banning disposable workbooks and mandating the use of durable, reusable textbooks is a commendable step in the right direction. It directly addresses the very issues raised by King Onunwo and other concerned writers and parents who have long warned about the silent damage being done to Nigeria’s school children through poorly designed textbook practices and unchecked misuse of learning materials. For years, families—especially those with multiple children—have struggled under the weight of repeated textbook purchases. Worse still, the culture of writing directly into textbooks turned what should have been reusable learning tools into single-use items, sabotaging younger siblings who inherited books already filled with answers, errors, and confusion. The new policy does not merely reduce costs; it restores the integrity of textbooks as reference materials meant to guide thinking, not replace it.

By insisting on standardized, high-quality textbooks designed to last four to six years, the government has effectively validated the core argument of education advocates: that sustainability, affordability, and quality learning are deeply interconnected. The decision to prohibit the bundling of disposable workbooks—often used as a commercial tactic to force annual purchases—is particularly laudable. It signals a shift away from profit-driven educational practices toward child-centered learning. Equally important is the policy’s emphasis on strengthening assessment and quality assurance for instructional materials. This tackles another long-standing problem: superficial textbook revisions that compel parents to buy “new editions” without meaningful improvements in content. Such practices have eroded trust in the system and placed unnecessary financial strain on households already stretched thin.

Beyond textbooks, the introduction of a uniform academic calendar and the rationalization of graduation ceremonies show a broader sensitivity to the hidden costs of schooling. These reforms recognize that education expenses are not limited to fees alone but are compounded by traditions and inconsistencies that quietly drain family resources. This policy intervention is more than administrative reform; it is proof that government can listen, reflect, and act when issues are clearly articulated and grounded in lived realities. It affirms the value of public-interest writing as a bridge between citizens’ experiences and policy action.While implementation and enforcement will be the true test, the direction is encouraging. Parents, teachers, and school administrators must now play their part to ensure that these reforms translate into real change in classrooms across the country.

In acknowledging and addressing the concerns raised by writers, educators, and families, the government has taken a vital step toward protecting the learning future of Nigerian children. It is a reminder that when the handwriting on the wall is read early enough, it is still possible to rewrite the story—for the better.However, kudos to Federal Government for the intervention, but it should not end on the table rather should be given accelerated attention in order to ensure full implementation.

By: Sylvia ThankGod-Amadi

Opinion

Redefining New Year Resolutions

Published

4 days ago

January 19, 2026

The Tide

Quote: “Transformation begins the moment intention meets action.”

At the dawn of a new year and throughout its early days, millions of people across the globe make promises to themselves—to improve, to grow, and to transform. The New Year carries a unique sense of renewal, hope, and possibility. It offers a clean slate on which aspirations are rewritten and goals are redefined. But beyond the excitement and optimism lies an important question: what truly gives power to these resolutions, and how can they be sustained to positively impact individuals, families, and teams?

New Year resolutions emerge from different platforms, perspectives, and points of need. For many, the focus is personal growth—acquiring new skills, practicing mindfulness, improving physical health, or cultivating emotional resilience. Others prioritize relationships, seeking to strengthen bonds with family and friends, heal broken connections, or build new ones. Career development also ranks high, with goals such as professional advancement, job transitions, skill enhancement, or entrepreneurship. Financial stability—saving money, paying off debt, investing wisely—remains a major concern, while some individuals turn to creativity, exploring new hobbies, talents, or artistic pursuits.

Regardless of the resolution, a clear roadmap is essential. Transformation begins with reflection—understanding personal values, clarifying what truly matters, and identifying the change one desires to see. This process often involves shedding unproductive habits and mindsets to create room for growth. Setting specific and achievable goals, then breaking them into manageable tasks, increases the likelihood of success. Equally important is establishing an accountability system—whether through self-monitoring, trusted partners, or structured reviews—to sustain commitment over time.

New Year resolutions embody the power of intentional living. They allow individuals and groups to pause, evaluate past actions, and consciously chart a new course. When intentions are clearly defined, it becomes easier to identify growth areas, develop a realistic plan, maintain motivation, cultivate healthy habits, and strengthen relationships. Setting SMART goals—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound—ensures that resolutions are practical and purposeful rather than vague aspirations. In addition, prioritizing self-care enables the mind, body, and soul to function optimally, providing the stamina needed for long-term success.

Many resolutions require learning something new—whether acquiring professional skills, developing hobbies, or broadening intellectual capacity. For personal growth, this may include learning a new language, reading more books, or gaining knowledge that enhances competence and confidence. Involving family members in shared goals strengthens bonds and encourages collective responsibility. Regular family activities, open communication, shared meals, and intentional time together help instill values such as kindness, empathy, discipline, and accountability.

Career-focused resolutions may involve enrolling in online courses or certification programs, improving digital literacy, or networking with professionals in the same field. Financial growth requires discipline—creating and adhering to a budget, building a savings plan, investing wisely, and paying off debt systematically. When creativity or leisure is the focus, starting a journal or blog, learning an instrument, engaging in arts and crafts, or pursuing writing can be both fulfilling and therapeutic.

For families and teams, resolutions foster unity and shared purpose. When goals are collectively set and pursued, they promote collaboration, trust, and mutual support. Teams that align their resolutions with shared values experience improved productivity, morale, and accountability. Clear communication, regular progress reviews, and celebrating small wins reinforce commitment and sustain momentum throughout the year.

However, common pitfalls must be avoided. Unrealistic expectations often lead to discouragement and failure; goals should be challenging yet attainable. A lack of planning or strategy undermines even the best intentions, while poor accountability increases the risk of giving up prematurely. To make resolutions stick, it is important to track progress using journals, planners, or digital tools; celebrate milestones; remain patient with setbacks; and review goals periodically to adjust when necessary.

As the year unfolds, may our goals, hopes, and resolutions inspire meaningful change. Resolutions are not merely seasonal rituals—they are journeys of growth and discipline. With intentional planning, focused action, and collective effort, individuals, families, and teams can thrive, transform, and make lasting strides toward a better future.

By: Nneka Amaechi-Nnadi

Opinion

Trans-Kalabari Road: Work In Progress

Published

2 weeks ago

January 12, 2026

The Tide

Quote:”This Dream project is one of the best things that have happened to the people and residents of Degema, Asari Toru and Akuku Toru Local Government Areas in recent times.”

This is the concluding part of this story featured in our last edition.

Good road network helps farmers to convey their agro-allied products to commercial hubs where buyers and sellers meet periodically to transact business. Road network engineers and motivates people resident in unfriendly geographical terrains, like riverine areas, to own property and shuttle home with ease. Some people will prefer living in their own houses in a more serene and nature-blessed communities to living in the city that is fraught with pollution, and other environmental, social and economic hazards. Prior to the cult epidemic that ravaged parts of Rivers State, the Emohuas, Elemes, Ogonis, and Etches were known for rural dwelling. Most public servants from these areas do their official and private transactions from their villages. For them it was comparatively easier to live in the village and engage in a diversified economic endeavours through farming, fishing or other lucrative business without outrageous charges and embarrassment associated with doing business in Port Harcourt, where land is as scarce as the traditional needle.

That is why the decision to construct the Trans-Kalabari Road by the administration of Dr. Peter Odili was one of the best decisions that administration took. When Dr. Odili vacated office as the Rivers State Governor, Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi took over and awarded contracts for continuation of the road project which in my considered view is the felt need of the people of Degema, Asari Toru and Akuku Toru Local Government Areas. Unfortunately, Rt. Hon. Amaechi’s efforts to drive the project was sabotaged by some contractors some of whom are Kalabari people. The main Trans-Kalabari Road is one project that is dear to the people and residents of Degema, Asari Toru and Akuku Toru Local Government Areas of Rivers State. This is because through the road commuters can easily access several communities in the three local government areas. For instance, the road when completed will enable access to eight of the ten communities in Degema Local Government Area, namely: Bukuma, Tombia, Bakana, Oguruama, Obuama, Usokun, Degema town and the Degema Consulate. It will also link 15 of the 16 communities in Asari Toru Local Government Area. The communities are: Buguma, the local government headquarters, Ido, Abalama, Tema, Sama, Okpo, Ilelema, Ifoko, Tema, Sangama, Krakrama, Omekwe-Ama, Angulama. The road will also connect 14 of 17 wards in Akuku Toru Local Government Area, and other settlements. It is interesting to note that It is faster, and far more convenient and economical for the catchment Communities on the Trans-Kalabari Road network to go to the State Capital than the East West Road. The people of the three local government areas will prefer to work or do their transactions in Port Harcourt from their respective communities to staying in Port Harcourt where the house rent and the general cost of living is astronomically high.

Consequently, development will seamlessly spread to the 28 out of 34 communities of Degema, Asari Toru and Akuku Toru Local Government Areas. The only Communities that are not linked by the road project are Oporoama in Asari Toru, the Ke and Bille Communities in Degema Local Government Area and the “Oceania” communities of Abissa, Kula, Soku, Idama, Elem Sangama of Akuku Toru Local Government Area. But because of the economic value of the unlinked Communities to Nigeria, (they produce substantial oil and gas in the area), the Federal, State Governments and the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), can extend the road network to those areas just as Bonny is linked to Port Harcourt and the Lagos Mainland Bridge is connecting several towns in Lagos and neighbouring States.Kudos to previous administrations who had constructed the Central Group axis.

However, what is said to be the First Phase of the Trans-Kalabari Road project is actually a linkage of the “Central Group” Communities which consists of Krakrama, Angulama, Omekwe. Ama, Omekwe Tari Ama, Ifoko, Tema, Sangama. It is the peripheral of the Trans-Kalabari Road. The completion of the Main Trans Kalabari project will free Port Harcourt and Obio/Akpor areas from congestion. It will motivate residents and people of the three local areas to contribute to the development of their Communities. If the Ogonis, Etches, Emohuas, Oyigbos, Okrikas, Elemes can feel comfortable doing business in Port Harcourt from home, residents and people whose communities are linked to Port Harcourt through the Trans-Kalabari Road will no doubt, do likewise. The vast arable virgin land of the Bukuma people can be open for development and sustainable agricultural ventures by Local, State and Federal Government.

It is necessary to recall that the Bukuma community was host to the Federal Government’s Graduate Farmers’ Scheme and the Rivers State Government moribund School-to-Land Scheme under Governor Fidelis Oyakhilome. Bukuma was the only community in Degema, Asari Toru and Akuku Toru Local Government Areas that has the capacity to carry those agricultural programmes. However the lack of road to transport farm produce to Port Harcourt and facilitate the movement of the beneficiaries of the scheme who lived in the community which is several miles away from the farms, hampered the sustainability of the programme. The main Trans-Kalabari Road remains the best gift to the people of Degema, Asari Toru, and Akuku-Toru Local Government Areas. Kudos to Sir Siminilayi Fubara.

By: Igbiki Benibo