Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, expressed deep concern about the pervasive issue of corruption in Nigeria.
He highlighted Nigeria’s low ranking of 150 out of 180 countries on the 2022 Corruption Perception Index by Transparency International, emphasizing the need for serious reflection, in a post on the X platform.
Obi, a former Anambra State Governor, decried the negative reputation Nigeria has maintained across all three branches of government due to corruption.
He called for a comprehensive effort to combat corruption, stressing the importance of doing the right things at all levels of government and public spaces.
On International Anti-Corruption Day, Obi underscored the detrimental impact of corruption on Nigeria’s democracy, peace, and progress. He cited reports from PricewaterhouseCoopers International Limited (PwC) and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, which projected that corruption could cost Nigeria up to 37 percent of GDP by 2030 if not urgently addressed.
Obi lamented the exodus of foreign investors, the closure of local businesses, massive job losses, increasing poverty rates, and a declining economy as consequences of the prevalent corruption.
He also criticized leaders for not setting good examples for their children, contributing to the rise of criminal activities among Nigerian youths, such as cybercrime.
In conclusion, Peter Obi expressed his commitment to a new Nigeria that is either corruption-free or minimally corrupt. He envisioned a nation that promotes entrepreneurship, professionalism, hard work, peace, and integrity.
