Undermining Justice: How Nigerians Fuel The Corruption They Condemn

By Rosemary Okoduwa

In a society where corruption and impunity have become deeply entrenched, it is easy to heap blame on security operatives and traditional rulers. However, a deeper reflection reveals that ordinary citizens are also complicit in the decay of the very institutions they are quick to criticise.

A recent series of incidents involving a forthright and uncompromising Divisional Police Officer (DPO) underscores this point. His dealings with members of the public expose the subtle but persistent ways individuals seek to manipulate the course of justice for personal advantage.

In one instance, a businessman, eager to curry favour, showed up at the DPO’s office uninvited, hoping to establish an improper rapport. The DPO, unimpressed by such behaviour, politely but firmly turned him away.

On another occasion, a man who claimed to be the elder brother of a prominent figure attempted to use this alleged connection to influence the DPO’s decision-making. Again, the officer remained resolute, making it clear that such tactics would find no success under his leadership.

The situation escalated when a driver was arrested for a traffic offence. A junior police officer approached the DPO, seeking leniency on behalf of the driver’s employer — a wealthy businessman and influential politician. The DPO’s crisp and decisive response was: “Tell whoever it is that his driver committed an offence and that I do not entertain such calls.”

Not surprisingly, the DPO’s refusal to bow to these pressures led to his sudden transfer from the town — a fate not uncommon for honest officers who uphold the law without fear or favour. Yet, his unwavering integrity continues to inspire discussions among residents, serving as a rare example of professionalism.

The real issue at hand extends beyond the alleged corruption of security agents or traditional leaders. It includes the conduct of ordinary citizens who routinely seek to pervert justice by exploiting connections, offering bribes, or making undue demands on law enforcement officers.

By engaging in such practices, the public helps to weaken the very institutions meant to safeguard their rights and uphold justice. This complicity only deepens the rot within the system, making reform far more difficult to achieve.

As one observer rightly pointed out, “It is the society that corrupts its security agents and makes them partial.” Until citizens confront their own role in fostering corruption, calls for integrity and accountability from public officials will ring hollow.

One must also ask: Why do so many citizens insist on securing the personal contact numbers of police officers if not to seek undue favours or bypass due process? Such actions reflect a disturbing culture of manipulation and moral compromise.

If genuine change is to occur, it must begin with the people. Citizens must resist the temptation to offer bribes, trade influence, or pressure officials into unethical conduct. Instead, they should uphold the principles of transparency and accountability.

Only by demanding and practising these values can society hope to build institutions that are fair, impartial, and truly protective of the public good.