STATE COMMISSIONER ATTRIBUTES UNEMPLOYMENT, POOR INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENT TO CORRUPT PRACTICES OF PUBLIC OFFICE HOLDERS

-Paul Okikia

The commissioner for youths empowerment and engagement, state of Osun, Mrs Mofolake Adegboyega, has attributed poor infrastructural development and criminal activities in Nigeria, to be parts of corrupt practices by public office holders .

Speaking during a public lecture tagged "Nigeria's future at stake: the need for youths' introspection, orientation and empowerment in the fight against corruption", organised by the anti corruption development group in Osogbo, Mrs Adegboyega, stated that the country's future is at stake.

She  added that citizens must come together to ensure its continuous existence, while also tasking youths to look beyond educational certification and engage in meaningful skills that will prepare and equip them for a brighter future.

On his part, the commissioner for Independent Corrupt Practices and other related offences commission (ICPC) Mr Baba Alaro Sahaib, noted that the commission and other anti corruption agencies need supports from nongovernmental organizations and general public to wipe away the menace that has eaten deep into the society.

Mr sahaib stressed that corruption is not limited to looting of public funds, but also to any behavior that does not conform with the norms and practicises of any society.

The ICPC boss highlighted that the backdrop of the fight against corruption can be seen as lack of political will on the part of politicians who are in government offices for their selfish interests.

He further acknowledged the CDS group for organising the programme geared towards sensitising the public on corrupt practices.

Also speaking, the guest lecturer of the event, professor Margaret Okorodudu, charged citizens to join hands with the anti corruption commission, ethics and compliance agency in the fight against corruption in the country.

Mrs Okorodudu stated that corruption is a national issue that must be treated with utmost reapect, in order to be eradicated in the society.

The professor and author of the first book on environmental law textbook in Nigeria also implored the general public to resent corruption with determination.

In her remarks, the president of the group, Miss Temitope Lawal, appreciated the invitees and dignitaries present at the occasion and pledged to stand tall in the fight against corrupt activities in Nigeria.