Falana urges Nigerians to champion fight against corruption, bad governance, impunity

A human rights lawyer, Mr Femi Falana (SAN), has called on
Nigerians to champion the fight against corruption, bad governance
and impunity toward heralding a new and progressive Nigeria.

Falana made the call on Thursday in Lagos at the 3rd Lagos
Professionals’ Week, organised by the Association of Professional
Bodies of Nigeria, Lagos State Chapter.

He spoke on the theme: “Corruption, Ethics and Good
Governance.”

According to him, rather than the government, the citizens
should champion the fight against corruption, bad governance and
impunity toward heralding a new and progressive Nigeria.

“Good governance is aimed at creating a country that is based on
honesty, integrity and free from the perennial problems of
corruption and double standard.

“Corruption has robbed citizens of their potential and
aspirations for a brighter future, quality education, better
healthcare, improved access to housing, food and water,” Falana
said.

He urged the government to abolish all corrupt practices and
abuse of power; increased investment in infrastructure, citizen’s
welfare and jobs creation and promote an inclusive governance.

The activist urged professionals to be actively involved in
politics and governance, while collaborating more with the
government on policy formulations that would aid socioeconomic
development.

Falana said that military rule was not an option for the
country, adding that those advocating for such should rather focus
on preserving the nation’s unity, peace and prosperity.

He said the country could not afford to allow itself to go into
another civil unrest or disintegration, adding that the
socioeconomic effects of military rule would be disastrous.

Falana, however, blamed the elected leaders, corruption, bad
governance and economic challenges for the increasing agitations
that had led to discussions in some quarters for a way out.

Earlier, Mr Wasiu Akewusola, the Chairman of the association,
Lagos State Chapter, said that corruption had been the bane of
development in the country.

Akewusola said that the association would be more responsive in
encouraging active participation of its members in governance and
holding government accountable and responsible. (NAN)

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