NBA: Rule of law impossible under Nigeria’s current level of corruption

The Nigerian Bar Association Anti-Corruption Committee (NBAA-CC) says Nigeria cannot achieve true adherence to the rule of law with its current level of corruption

In a statement issued to mark the 2025 Global Anti-Corruption Day, the committee said while it aligns with the recent commitment to the rule of law expressed by Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, the chief justice of Nigeria (CJN), the reality on the ground shows that corruption remains a major obstacle to enforcing those principles.

“The Rule of Law is the most potent weapon against corruption,” the statement signed by Babafemi Badejo, chairman of the committee, reads.

“However, the NBAA-CC hastens to add that the rule of law cannot be achieved with the current level of corruption in Nigeria.”

The committee said it is ready to collaborate with the Kekere-Ekun, the judiciary, government institutions, and civil society to translate the CJN’s renewed commitment into measurable reforms.

The NBA said anti-corruption committees have now been established in all its state branches to strengthen accountability, support whistle-blowers, and advance legal advocacy nationwide.

The association added that several of its branches are already implementing concrete programmes, including partnerships with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA); public sensitisation on radio; and recognition of diligence among court registrars by the Idemili branch in Anambra.

The NBAA-CC cautioned against normalising corruption, noting that it continues to destroy development, undermine justice and fuel insecurity.

“Corruption is not normal. It cannot be normal. It must never become our trend,” the committee said.

The association urged legal practitioners, public officers and citizens across sectors to reject indifference and join in demanding accountability.

“We are ready to work with all. The time for collective action, fortified by the law and driven by integrity, is now,” it added.