As the world mark 2023 Anti – Corruption Day, A non governmental Organization, Christian Fellowship and Care Foundation has reassured of its commitment in the fight against corruption at all levels of Governance and to raise a society that values transparency, Accountability and inclusivity.
This was made known during a press conference held at their office complex in Owerri last weekend.
The Campaign Manager, Mr Clinton Ezeigwe while addressing newsmen said the Organization is aimed at enhancing anti corruption and social reform and disclosed that the 20th Anniversary of the United Nations Convention against Corruption ( UNCAC) is symbolic as it reinforces the collaborative effort geared toward the eradication of corrupt practices. He maintained that the launch of the project since 2023 has recorded tremendous result however, noted that the fight against corruption has its challenges as 1 out of 5 individuals has indulged in bribing their way through to access public services. Also, 124 Countries remain static in corruption index which pose as a major concern.
According to Ezeigwe, the Organization runs with a project ” Enhancing Anti Corruption and social inclusive Reform in Nigeria, a USAID funded initiative anchored by ANEEJ and implemented by palladium Under the Strengthening Civic and Local Engagement ( SCALE) project which is aimed towards condemning, combacting, fostering an environment conducive for peace, security and development.
The theme of this year’s celebration which focuses on the intrinsic link between anti corruption policies , peace, security and development is inline with the Organization’s collective mission and underscores the vital role that combacting corruption plays in creating prosperous and peaceful society.
The foundation stated that corruption poses a threat to peace in the society as it gives room for divigent reactions which is inimical for the stability of the society especially when public funds are mismanaged, bribery becomes a rule and institutions are undermined, it impedes on the potentials of the society
According to the foundation, ” when public resources are diverted for personal gain, bribery becomes a norm and institutions are undermined, the fabric of society is weakened”.
” The erosion of trust in public institutions can lead to social unrest and undermine the foundation of a stable and peaceful Community”
From its findings the Organization reveals that tackling corruption is expedient as it will pace way for an environment conducive for peace and security. It recognises that corruption also serves as breeding ground for discontent and social unrest and threatens the stability of communities. Corruption undermines rule of law, breeds poverty, facilitates illegal use of resources and provide financing for armed conflict.
It further recommends that there should be a collaborative effort in the fight where the law enforcement agencies, the judiciary, civil society and the private sector must work in synergy to bring Transparency, honesty accountability and integrity, also the institutions must be strengthened, the citizens empowered, crime perpetrators should face sanctions and the need for citizens to participate in the decision making process that affects them which will make for a society where peace and security reign supreme.
