The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), on Tuesday, lamented that the present fake certificate scandal rocking education institutions is evidence of how deep the rot has eaten into Nigeria’s system.
Musa Aliyu, the chairman of the ICPC, who stated this in Abuja during the inauguration of 30 Students Anti-Corruption Clubs (SACs) in both public and private secondary schools in the Federal Capital Territory, said youths are the agents of change the nation desperately needs in the fight against corruption.
Aliyu, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), called on students in both secondary and tertiary institutions to be whistle-blowers by reporting instances of corruption to relevant authorities and to ICPC, adding that by speaking out the wrongdoings, they will become catalysts for change, accountability and transparency.
“The youth of Nigeria hold a unique position in society – you witness firsthand the various corrupt practices occurring within our schools from teachers demanding bribes or sexual gratification for higher grades to the embezzlement of school funds, as well as absenteeism from classes.
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“These acts of corruption erode the foundation of our educational system. You have a role to play to stop corruption so that you are not merely observers or victims. You can act as a whistle-blower, reporting instances of corruption to relevant authorities and ICPC.
“You are the agents of change we desperately need in our fight against corruption. Your voices, your actions, and your determination can transform Nigerian schools into beacons of integrity, innovation, and excellence,” he said.
The ICPC chairman said the establishment of the students’ anti-corruption clubs was to signify the need for collective action in combating corruption from the roots, starting with the future leaders.
“The few of you here are the leaders of the clubs in your schools and as leaders, it is imperative that you lead by example. You must strive to cultivate ethical and moral values, rejecting the allure of corruption,” he added.
