The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has called on Nigerian youth to actively participate in the fight against corruption, emphasizing their crucial role in shaping a more transparent and accountable society.
Speaking on Wednesday in Osogbo during an anti-corruption competition for secondary school students, the Resident Anti-Corruption Commissioner in Osun State, Yusuf Olatunji, highlighted the urgent need for youth involvement in combating corruption.
The event was organized by the ICPC in collaboration with the Osun State Government.
Olatunji stressed that tackling corruption is not a task for one person or agency alone, but a collective effort requiring inter-agency collaboration and the engagement of young people.
“The fight against corruption is not a one-man war; it requires collective responsibility, inter-agency synergy, and most importantly, the active involvement of our youths,” he said.
He described the programme’s theme, “Corruption: A Virus That We Must Eradicate,” as timely, comparing corruption to a virus that infects all sectors of national life, weakening institutions, distorting values, and hindering development.
“Like a virus, corruption mutates and spreads if left unchecked. Combating it demands a strategic, coordinated approach focused on both prevention and enforcement,” Olatunji noted.
Encouraging students to become agents of change, he urged them to embrace honesty and integrity in their everyday lives, while calling on parents and teachers to serve as role models.
“You are not too young to make a difference. Your voices, creativity, and ideals—when rooted in integrity—can challenge societal norms and inspire others to do what is right,” he said.
He further noted that the battle against corruption begins with individual choices—such as doing assignments honestly, rejecting exam malpractice, and standing against injustice.
Also speaking at the event, the Chairman of the Osun State Universal Basic Education Board, Mr. Ibukun Fadipe, applauded the initiative and announced that the state government plans to establish anti-corruption clubs in secondary schools to further promote integrity and accountability among students.
