Thesis Abstract

Abstract
The fight against corruption is a critical issue in Nigeria, and anti-graft agencies play a significant role in anti-corruption campaigns in the country. This research project aims to explore the functions and effectiveness of anti-graft agencies in combating corruption in Nigeria. The study will examine the roles of key anti-graft agencies such as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offenses Commission (ICPC) in investigating, prosecuting, and preventing corrupt practices. Using a combination of qualitative and quantitative research methods, data will be collected from primary and secondary sources to analyze the impact of anti-graft agencies on corruption levels in Nigeria. Interviews with officials from anti-graft agencies, government officials, and anti-corruption activists will provide insights into the challenges faced by these agencies and the strategies they employ to address corruption effectively. Additionally, data on corruption cases, convictions, and recovery of stolen assets by anti-graft agencies will be analyzed to assess their performance in fighting corruption. The research will also investigate the legal framework and institutional support available to anti-graft agencies in Nigeria. By examining the legal mandates, resources, and independence of these agencies, the study aims to evaluate their capacity to carry out effective anti-corruption measures. Furthermore, the research will explore the role of international cooperation and partnerships in supporting anti-graft efforts in Nigeria, including the exchange of information, training programs, and technical assistance. The findings of this research project will contribute to a better understanding of the challenges and opportunities in the fight against corruption in Nigeria. By assessing the performance and impact of anti-graft agencies, the study will provide recommendations for strengthening anti-corruption initiatives and improving governance in the country. Ultimately, this research aims to support the efforts of anti-graft agencies and policymakers in their fight against corruption and promote transparency, accountability, and good governance in Nigeria.

Thesis Overview

INTRODUCTION

Before this country could be free from corruption, its deem fit to invite certain bodies like EFCC, ICPC, for strict examination. These bodies are known as Anti Graft Agencies.

Corruption is a moral deterioration and depravity. It has a wide range of meaning which include mis-appropriation, embezzlement or division of fund bribery gratification, using office or position for unfair advantage, financial funds, business frauds, examination malpractices and money laundry by public and private sector offices and so on.

According to the sixth edition of Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary (1992), corruption is defined as a ‘dishonest or illegal behaviour especially people in authority’. It is therefore, something which is no more news to Nigerians, particularly in this present democratic dispensation.

Hence, corruption in Nigeria is traceable to some past Nigerian leaders who ruled Nigeria from 1985 – 1993. Actually, corruption had been perpetuating before his military administration in Nigeria but, it is believed to have got to a high level during his regime.

During this period, he was tagged: ‘MARODONA’ just because of his unreliable, untruthful and unfulfilled promises he made. A lot of projects worth billions of naira were granted but, many of them were not executed.

The issue of N180 million which was budgeted for establishing the most powerful television and radio stations did not see the high of the day up till this present moment.

Likewise, the regime of another Nigeria president was described by a Nigerian Tribune article titled: “The Pharaoh”, (page 9 of the 1999 edition), as a merciless regime, who described to be mercilessly punished. During this period, there were a lot of killings, threats and misappropriation of government funds, among those who were slam then were Kudirat Abiola, Suliyat Adedeji, to mention but a few. Thereafter, every nook and cranny of Nigeria was so tough that, there was nobody to query his dictatorial actions.

Also, another prominent Head of State is an example to be cited. Despite his activities then, there were some path of corrupt practices which were committed during his military regime. All this, to ensure transition of civil rule and keeping people abreast of happenings in their governance, was rated a successful one over his predecessor, because of his military immunity.

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Among others were the late senator who embezzles over 200 million, calming it was used to buy rams for the Muslims festival, popularly known as Ileya. The 120 million I.D Cards which was also embezzled by the then minister of Education who gave bribes to some members of National Assembly by boost his ministerial appointment bill.

However, the burning issue to be examined now is that of the inspector General of police who was picked up by the operatives of the Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC), led by then formal Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC) and was later arrested.

The Nigerian Tribune (Tuesday 22nd February, 2005), gathered that, inspector general of police be arrested, following the alleged incrimination statements made against him by the then, Managing Director of Fountain Trust Bank (FTB).

Meanwhile, it was later gathered that the FTB Managing Director, had been declared wanted by the EFCC on the allegations of money laundering and breach of stationary banking and financial regulations.

Pertinently, there is no gain saying that the Anti graft agencies have role to play in anti-corruption crusade in our society.

Therefore, the anti-graft agencies should highlight the repercussion of society, so as to achieve a corruption free society. So, these revelations from the subject of what this research work focus on. It is aimed at examining the role of anti-graft agencies using EFCC as a case study.

The Nigerian Tribune (Tuesday, 22nd February, 2005) gathered that, Tafa was arrested following the alleged incrimination statements made against him by the Managing Director of Fountain Trust Bank (FTB) Mr. Segun Aina.

Meanwhile, it was later gathered that the FTB Managing Director, Mr. Segun Aina had been declared wanted by the EFCC on the allegations of money laundering and breach of stationary banking and financial regulations.

Pertinently, there is no gain saying that the Anti graft agencies have role to play in anti-corruption crusade in our society.