The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA) has urged young Nigerians to take active roles in confronting corruption.
HEDA’s Executive Secretary, Mr Sulaiman Arigbabu, made the call on Tuesday during the unveiling of the ninth edition of “100 High Profile Corruption Cases in Nigeria” in Lagos.
He said corruption in Nigeria, though tragic, often unites those who engage in it across several divides.
Arigbabu noted that corruption touches many sectors and involves professionals including doctors, lawyers, accountants and journalists.
“Corruption, in its dark way, appears to unite those who harm the country,” he said, adding that perpetrators cooperate across tribal, religious and political lines when looting public funds.
“It is only when justice is pursued that divisions emerge,” he added.
He explained that the annual compendium documents both high-profile and lower-value cases to show that corruption is not only driven by “big men.”
“This edition includes smaller cases to show that corruption exists in delays, extortion and daily interactions,” he said.
Arigbabu stressed that the publication does not act as a court or issue judgments.
“We simply report what is public to ensure Nigerians do not forget. Those who steal from the country rely on our short memories,” he said.
He noted that the compendium is used by media, researchers and institutions outside Nigeria to monitor accountability.
The executive secretary added that the initiative seeks to mobilize young people to join the anti-corruption movement.
“If we are serious about change, the youth must champion the fight against corruption,” Arigbabu said.
He further explained that documenting unresolved cases helps prevent accused persons from gaining positions without clearing their names.
He added that the compendium now serves as a vital tool for accountability and civic education, highlighting how corruption harms national development.
