Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume, representing Borno South, has expressed deep concerns over the rampant corruption in Nigeria, highlighting the lack of effective legislation to combat the issue.
Speaking to reporters in Kano on Sunday, Ndume lamented the normalization of corrupt practices among politicians and government officials.
“Our major challenge in this country is corruption,” Ndume stated. “There is no law that proactively or reactively addresses corruption. If someone in politics or government isn’t corrupt, it’s because they’re God-fearing. In Nigeria, you can steal money, walk freely, and even be celebrated.”
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He criticized the societal trend of glorifying newly wealthy individuals, even when their riches are of dubious origin. “It’s only in this country that someone who had no money last week can suddenly buy cars and jets, and be praised as blessed by God,” Ndume remarked.
The senator expressed frustration over failed efforts to introduce legislation on unexplained wealth.
He recounted a previous attempt to persuade a former head of state to sign an executive bill, which was rejected. “There’s still no law on unexplained wealth in Nigeria, nor any Executive Order on it,” he added.
Ndume also turned his attention to the pressing issue of hunger in Nigeria, advocating for the increased cultivation of food crops. He emphasized that despite Nigeria’s vast arable land, only a small portion is being utilized, which is exacerbating the nation’s food insecurity.