Professor Babafemi
Badejo, an expert in Political Science and International Relations, expressed
his
belief that former President Muhammadu Buhari’s performance in the fight
against corruption was a resounding failure. Moreover, he predicted that
Buhari’s successor, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, would be even worse in
addressing the issue.
Delivering the first
inaugural lecture titled “Interests” at Chrisland University in
Abeokuta, Ogun State, Professor Badejo elaborated on his viewpoint. While
acknowledging that Tinubu may excel in other areas based on his recent actions
within the first month of his presidency, he doubted that he would effectively
combat corruption.
According to Badejo,
Buhari’s approach to anti-corruption measures was inadequate. Although the
former president initially expressed a commitment to implementing the United
Nations’ anti-corruption strategy, his subsequent actions were disappointing.
Badejo highlighted that Buhari appointed a committee, but it remained inactive
and achieved no tangible results.
Regarding President
Tinubu, Badejo emphasized that it was premature to draw a definitive
conclusion. However, based on the limited time frame, Badejo believed that
Tinubu would outperform Buhari in various areas except for corruption. Tinubu’s
public statements mainly focused on ensuring the comfort of judges and
citizens, without addressing the pressing issue of corruption. Badejo noted
that no country could truly prosper while neglecting the fight against
corruption, though he expressed hope that Tinubu might alter his stance on this
matter in the future. He concluded his remarks by wishing Tinubu success.
The inaugural lecturer
expressed deep concern that Nigerians had allowed corruption to thrive by being
excessively complacent and tolerant of its existence for an extended period. He
criticized successive administrations, including that of President Buhari, for
failing to confront corruption head-on with the unwavering determination
required. Badejo believed that President Tinubu, even if he desired to combat
corruption, would face insurmountable obstacles preventing him from achieving
significant progress. The consequence, in his view, would be superficial and
sporadic prosecutorial tactics, selective trials, and ineffective results.
To address this grave
issue, Badejo emphasized the necessity of holding everyone accountable,
irrespective of their relationships or social status. It was crucial for the
President and other top leaders to demonstrate their commitment to the
anti-corruption cause by setting personal examples and exhibiting zero
tolerance for corruption. Badejo stressed the importance of ensuring that no
one could evade the reach of the law in the fight against corruption.
