Opposition Must Not Turn Anti Corruption Fight Into Political Drama

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By Editorial Team

A recent joint statement credited to some opposition figures suggests that democracy is under threat in Nigeria because certain former public officials are facing investigation for alleged corruption. This argument raises serious concerns, as it implies that accountability itself is persecution. Such reasoning undermines the principle that democratic governance includes scrutiny of public resources and decision-making.

Democracy does not mean immunity from investigation. Public office comes with responsibility, and citizens have the right to demand transparency and accountability. Investigations by anti-corruption agencies are part of ensuring good governance, not attacks on political figures.

Many of the cases referenced in public discussions have been reported in the media over the years. Several investigations were documented while the individuals were in office, and questions about governance and resource management remain. Holding public officials accountable based on established reports and investigations is a cornerstone of democracy, not political persecution.

For example, multiple reports have highlighted concerns about the handling of recovered public funds and the operations of anti-corruption agencies during previous administrations. These matters continue to be relevant to the public discourse on governance. Investigating or seeking clarification on such issues is part of ensuring that institutions work properly and fairly, and that the public interest is protected.

It is therefore troubling that a group claiming to want to rescue Nigeria would seek to shield individuals from scrutiny. Rescue does not begin with defending the powerful. It begins with defending the public interest. Any coalition that truly wants a better Nigeria should encourage transparency, not attempt to intimidate institutions responsible for fighting corruption.

Another worrying aspect is the narrative that portraying investigations as a threat to democracy is often accepted without critical evaluation. Political loyalty and emotions sometimes overshadow logic and the rule of law, creating a situation where due process is questioned based on affiliation rather than facts.

Corruption has significantly impacted Nigeria, weakening institutions, deepening insecurity, and limiting social development. Politicizing anti-corruption efforts benefits no one except those who prefer a system that allows misuse of public resources to go unchecked. Ensuring accountability is not about targeting individuals; it is about maintaining trust in governance and protecting citizens’ interests.

It is important to stress that investigations must follow due process, respect rights, and be conducted fairly. Upholding the rule of law does not mean ignoring wrongdoing or turning a blind eye because someone is politically connected. A functioning democracy depends on the consistent application of laws, regardless of status or affiliation.

Nigerians deserve better than recycled political scripts. We have seen this pattern before. Whenever investigations get close to certain individuals, the cry of persecution is raised. Democracy is invoked. Institutions are attacked. Yet when ordinary citizens face the law, nobody talks about democracy being under threat.

Nigerians deserve a politics that prioritizes governance over power plays. History shows that whenever accountability processes reach powerful figures, complaints of persecution emerge. Yet, when ordinary citizens face the law, democracy is rarely questioned. The real threat to democratic progress is the misuse of public resources, not the institutions tasked with investigating such matters.

Until accountability becomes a non-negotiable part of governance, Nigeria’s institutions will remain vulnerable, and public trust will continue to erode. Those who held or hold power must explain their stewardship of resources. This is not persecution—it is responsibility. Any coalition or group aiming to improve Nigeria should encourage transparency, support anti-corruption mechanisms, and respect the principles of governance.