By Blessing Otobong-Gabriel
Chairman of Open Africa Foundation, Mr Tunji Aworinde has called for citizens participation in the fight against corruption.
Aworinde made the call during the ninth annual conference on financial crimes and governance integrity, organised by Open Africa Foundation in conjunction with forensic insight international and summit leadership institute.
It noted that the issue of corruption is a complex and deeply ingrained problem that affects many aspects of the society, including governance, economy and individual lives, and must be tackled squarely.
He said it was disturbing to see how poverty is often weaponised to maintain the status quo and keep people in a vulnerable position, hence to create a lasting change, it is essential to address the root causes of corruption and promote transparency, accountability and civic engagement.
“We need men and women who will stand up, ask questions and demand answers. We are here to encourage individuals to be the conscience of our nation. Restoring our nation requires integrity, which begins at home. Parents must model integrity for their children.
“Unfortunately, Nigeria faces daunting challenges: poverty, out-of-school children and inadequate electricity. How did we get here? We lost our way due to lack of integrity, transparency and accountability.
“You can’t give what you don’t have. Parents must have integrity to pass it on to their children. Every parent wants the best for their children, but being the best is not just about money. It is about integrity, conscience, asking questions and demanding answers,” he said.
In his remarks, Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Olanipekun Olukayode said citizens participation and ownership are vital components in the fight against corruption in Nigeria and commended Open Africa Foundation for the initiative targeted at promoting citizen engagement and awareness about corruption and its effects on the national economy and international image.
Olukayode, who was represented by the Head of Creative Communication on Financial Crimes, Mr Chris Oluka, expressed gratitude to Open African Foundation, Forestic Insight International Limited and Summit Leadership Institute for hosting the conference.
