The anti-corruption coalition denounces the “politics of exploitation” and warns of the threat to Nigeria’s stability

The anti-corruption crusade of the People’s Voice Organisation, a member of the national anti-corruption coalition ICPC in Ogun State, has raised the alarm over what it described as the growing culture of political exploitation, manipulation and abuse of public trust in Nigeria.

The group warned that the continued commercialization of politics and the erosion of democratic accountability pose serious threats to national stability, economic growth and sustainable development.

In a statement released on Thursday, Nigeria’s Anti-Corruption Ambassador, Ustadh Tajudeen Jimoh Alao, who spoke on behalf of the State Coordinator, Idris Kelvin Abu, said the current political climate in Nigeria and parts of Africa reflects a dangerous shift from service-oriented leadership to self-serving governance.

He lamented that political offices are increasingly used as platforms for personal enrichment, domination and exploitation of vulnerable citizens, a trend which he said has weakened institutions, worsened poverty and fueled insecurity.

The coalition noted that many Nigerians, especially youth and economically disadvantaged groups, are often manipulated through inducements such as money, foodstuffs and other gifts in exchange for political loyalty and electoral support.

He added that in some cases young people were recruited to spread disinformation, intimidate opponents and disrupt electoral processes, only to be abandoned after the elections.

“This destructive cycle has continued to exacerbate unemployment, frustration and desperation among young people,” the statement read.

The group also criticized the persistence of patronage politics, godfatherism and ethnic-based considerations in governance, warning that such practices undermine merit, transparency and national development.

He also expressed concern about the use of religion and ethnicity as tools of political division, stressing that such tactics weaken social cohesion and hinder democratic progress.

The coalition said the widening gap between political office holders and citizens continued to generate public frustration, particularly against a backdrop of rising governance costs, excessive privileges for politicians and poor provision of basic services.

He emphasized that public office should not be an avenue for luxury or abuse of power, but a constitutional trust aimed at prioritizing the well-being of citizens.

Citing Section 14(2)(b) of the 1999 Constitution, the group reiterated that the safety and welfare of the people remains the primary responsibility of government.

The statement also refers to the provisions of the ICPC Act 2000, which criminalize corruption, bribery and abuse of office, urging leaders to embrace accountability, transparency and discipline in governance.

While recognizing the growing calls for reform, the coalition urged stakeholders to focus on reducing governance costs, strengthening institutions and improving service delivery.

It identified key areas requiring urgent attention, including local government administration, education, healthcare, agriculture and youth empowerment.

The group argued that Africa’s main challenge is not a lack of human or natural resources, but a deficit of ethical leadership and institutional accountability.

He called on citizens to reject vote buying, political violence, ethnic division and disinformation, stressing that democracy can only thrive with active civic participation and accountability.

The coalition urged political leaders, traditional rulers, civil society groups and other stakeholders to recommit to integrity, justice and accountable governance.

He added that sustainable development will remain unattainable unless corruption is addressed, institutions are strengthened and leaders prioritize public interest over personal gain.

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