President Tinubu Says His Administration Has Ended Corruption

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has stirred public debate with a powerful declaration, stating that corruption is no longer a major issue in Nigeria. The President made the bold claim during a visit to Brazil, where he engaged with members of the Nigerian community. His statement has been widely reported by media outlets and has sparked a strong conversation both online and offline.

According to a video of the meeting, the President told the Nigerian diaspora that his administration’s tough economic decisions, such as the removal of fuel subsidies and the liberalization of the foreign exchange market, were designed to create a more transparent and accountable system. “We have more money for the economy, no more corruption,” Tinubu was quoted as saying, directly linking his reforms to a clean-up of the financial system.

While President Tinubu’s claim is a hallmark of his administration’s anti-corruption rhetoric, it has been met with a diverse range of reactions. A recent report from the anti-corruption organization Atum Humanitarian Anti-Corruption & Charitable Initiative (AHACCI) commended the President’s “uncommon courage” and noted that Nigeria had climbed five places on the 2024 Transparency International (TI) Corruption Perception Index (CPI). The report attributed this slight improvement to the administration’s strategic policies and its support for anti-graft agencies.

However, the President’s assertion has also drawn sharp criticism. Political activist Omoyele Sowore and other critics have dismissed the claim as out of touch with the reality on the ground. They point to persistent allegations of corruption within government agencies and ongoing economic challenges that are seen as a breeding ground for corrupt practices. The claim comes at a time when many Nigerians are struggling with a high cost of living, which has been exacerbated by the very reforms the President is touting as a success.

The debate over the President’s claim highlights the complex and deep-seated nature of corruption in Nigeria. While the government may be making efforts to strengthen institutions and reduce opportunities for graft, the perception among a significant portion of the public is that corruption remains a major obstacle to the nation’s progress. The President’s bold statement serves to underscore his administration’s commitment, but the public reaction shows that many believe there is still a long way to go.