Development and Accountability of Nigeria’s Anticorruption Initiatives: Governance and Democracy in Nigeria

Abstract

Purpose. The purpose of this research was to evaluate the complex dynamics between governance, corruption, and the economic environment in Nigeria and how these factors cause state crimes that compromise democracy in the country. The research sought to explore the role of governance, corruption, and the economic environment in promoting or lessening the prevalence of state crimes that hinder democracy. Additionally, it purposed to assess the effectiveness of anticorruption initiatives implemented in Nigeria.

Theoretical Framework. The theory used in this study was the state crimes against democracy (SCAD) theory. The theory explores the existence of undemocratic tendencies within liberal democracies. SCAD examines the influence of the elites, policy makers, and influential public agency personnel on policies to undermine the democratic integrity of a nation. For instance, in the case of Nigeria, the structure of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission makes it inherently under the control of the president and other top politicians and state officials. As a result, such conflicts of interest have resulted in the lack of independence of the agencies, consequently hampering the judicial process.

Methodology. The methodology employed in this study was a qualitative approach of analyzing comparative case studies. Relevant studies were highlighted targeting anticorruption initiatives in Nigeria. The main indicators were highlighted and used to make interrelationships and conclusions.

Findings and Conclusions. Nigeria still struggles with corruption because of multiple issues that limit the efficiency of anticorruption initiatives. Corruption is complex and it needs diverse efforts to remedy. Enhancing accountability structures is the best way to deal with graft.

Recommendations. Nigeria suffers from state crimes and poor democracy because of corruption. The country is inadequately managed because of limiting factors in administrative functions. Enhancing transparency in governance will improve accountability. Further studies should be conducted on the patterns of corruption and anticorruption efforts through longitudinal studies. More comparative investigations should highlight Nigeria’s unique challenges and opportunities that make fighting corruption difficult.