Corruption protected by powerful politicians, clerics – Mahdi Shehu
Human rights activist and public affairs commentator, Mahdi Shehu, has said that corruption in Nigeria is no longer just a crime as it is now protected by powerful individuals, including traditional rulers, religious leaders, and politicians.
Speaking during a recent appearance on an AIT programme, Mahdi argued that the real problem with Nigeria’s fight against corruption is not the absence of laws, but the lack of willpower to enforce them.
“The problem in Nigeria is not the law, not the act, not the constitutional provisions. The problem is in the implementation, in the conception, in the conceptualisation.”
He explained that although whistleblowing policies exist including rewards of up to 2.5% for successful reports, the issue goes far deeper.
“What is the point of making a legal framework on corruption. When you see corruption walking with legs, with eyes, with ears visible like human beings?”
Mahdi gave two examples to back his claims.
He first recalled how a bank MD in northern Nigeria allegedly took ₦3 billion in shareholders’ money with the help of his wife, brother, and even housemaid using the funds to open businesses like a salon and restaurant. He said the man appeared in court only once.
“Eventually, that bank collapsed. The money was never recovered. But the man still walks free and is even given national honours. When he writes his name, you see OON after it,” Mahdi added.
He said two powerful emirs and top Islamic scholars intervened by visiting the President, which led to a “nolle prosequi” a legal withdrawal of the case.
The second case involved a former governor from southern Nigeria who allegedly stole ₦30 billion from his state.
According to Mahdi, community leaders and religious groups lobbied for him, calling him “our son,” and asking the President to let him go.
“I had a clip from NTA where South-South Elders Forum, South-South Christian Forum, and Secretary-General of CAN then went to the villa and met Obasanjo, President Obasanjo.
“Mr. President, the money said had been stolen by our son,” Mahdi revealed.
“He appeared in court only once. Later, he even became one of the most important men during the Yar’Adua administration,” Mahdi added.
Mahdi also criticized the 1999 constitution, saying it promised rights that are not justiciable.
“It tells you you’re entitled to this and that, but at the end of the day, those rights don’t hold in real life,” he added.
Corruption protected by powerful politicians, clerics – Mahdi Shehu
