Corruption and Hunger in Nigeria: Senator Ali Ndume’s Concerns

Senator Ali Ndume, representing Borno South Senatorial District, has voiced his frustration over the pervasive problem of corruption in Nigeria, stating that the country continues to celebrate individuals who embezzle public funds. In a recent interactive session with journalists in Kano, Ndume emphasized that societal values have normalized ill-gotten wealth, allowing corrupt politicians to operate with impunity.

Ndume lamented that in Nigeria, those who embezzle public funds are not only unchallenged but are also praised for their riches. He noted that the country lacks a law that can proactively or reactively address corruption, contrasting this with developed nations where wealth is scrutinized. "In developed nations, people question the source of one’s wealth, but in Nigeria, you are venerated for flaunting ill-gotten wealth," he remarked.

The senator also highlighted the culture of impunity surrounding corrupt politicians, stating that if someone in the system is not corrupt, they are considered lucky to be God-fearing. He shared a personal experience of trying to introduce a law on unexplained wealth in Nigeria, but his efforts were unsuccessful. "Up till now, there is no law on Unexplained Wealth Act in Nigeria and there is no Executive Order on Unexplained Wealth in Nigeria," Ndume emphasized.

In addition to addressing corruption, Ndume drew attention to the pressing issue of hunger in the country, urging the government and citizens to prioritize agriculture as a means of combating food insecurity. "There is hunger in the land and up till now we have not cultivated up to five percent of our land… blessed land in Nigeria," he stated.

Ndume’s concerns underscore the need for Nigeria to address its corruption and hunger issues, which have significant implications for the country’s development and the well-being of its citizens.