By Chioma Obinna

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria, HURIWA, has urged Nigerians to take ownership of the anti-corruption war, emphasizing that with the increasingly restrictive immigration policies of advanced nations, it is critical to address corruption and create a more livable society for citizens.

In a press statement signed by its National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, HURIWA highlighted that Nigeria’s poor global corruption ranking demands urgent collective action.

The recently released 2024 Corruption Perception Index (CPI) by Transparency International ranks Nigeria 140th out of 180 countries, with a score of 26 out of 100, a slight improvement from 25 in 2023.

During a media briefing, Auwal Rafsanjani, Executive Director of the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), explained that while Nigeria’s improved ranking reflects increased anti-corruption prosecutions, asset recovery efforts, and civil society advocacy, the country still faces systemic corruption.

Sub-Saharan Africa as a region holds the lowest average CPI score at 33 out of 100, hindered by challenges such as climate pressures and conflict.

HURIWA noted that pervasive corruption continues to fuel youth unemployment, inflation, and deteriorating infrastructure, warning that without a coordinated effort to eliminate corruption, these issues could worsen. The association called for Nigerians to actively engage as whistle-blowers and support anti-corruption initiatives, urging the government to strengthen protection mechanisms to safeguard whistle-blowers from retaliation.

“The current wave of anti-immigration policies worldwide should serve as a wake-up call. With many advanced nations tightening immigration laws, Nigerians must work collectively to combat corruption and foster transparency and accountability. This is a national emergency,” the statement reads.

HURIWA expressed concern that corruption threatens the very existence of Nigeria as a united entity, referencing a report by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) presented to the previous administration. The report, Impact of Corruption on Nigeria’s Economy, warned that unchecked corruption could cost Nigeria up to 37% of its GDP by 2030, equivalent to approximately $2,000 per capita. PwC’s analysis demonstrated that reducing corruption could significantly improve economic growth and quality of life in Nigeria.

The association reiterated that the fight against corruption must involve everyone, from government institutions to ordinary citizens. HURIWA called for robust implementation of anti-corruption policies and strict enforcement of legal frameworks to deter corrupt practices.

HURIWA also drew attention to the tightening immigration measures in the United States under President Donald Trump, noting that thousands of deportations are underway, including many Nigerians. With advanced nations such as the UK, Canada, and Australia introducing similar restrictive policies, opportunities for Nigerians to migrate to developed countries are diminishing.

The association warned that continued corruption-induced social inequalities could trigger national instability. “If we fail to address corruption, the consequences could be catastrophic for Nigeria’s unity and progress. It is imperative for all Nigerians to take a stand and work towards eradicating this menace.”