Evaluating Institutional Agencies in Curbing Corruption in Nigeria

Abstract

The dissatisfaction, frustration and anger in the society over the management of the Nigerian State finances in spite of the existence of anti-corruption agencies established to curb corruption prompted this discussion to ascertain the propriety of the agencies in curtailing this epidemic. Respondents with expertise in financial fraud and corruption techniques were enlisted from the South-South geo-political region to represent Nigeria. The study reveals lack of independence, poor funding, weak prosecutorial laws, low human capacity and deficient legislations establishing the anti-corruption agencies, The study thus recommend the need to review the extant laws setting up the anti-corruption agencies to ensure that identified loopholes in the board composition of the agencies, mode of operation and reporting channels are addressed to enhance transparency and independence. Also the study recommends the review of the funding of the agencies to preserve their independence, objectivity and building of the professional capacity of the officials as well as review of the Nigerian penal code.