The Chairman of Independent Corrupt Practices and other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Prof. Bolaji Owasanoye, has advised monarchs, religious leaders and civil society organisations on their roles in the development of their communities.
He gave the advice at a one-day sensitisation dialogue in Lagos on the National Ethics and Integrity Policy (NEIP) and Executive Tracking, with traditional rulers, religious leaders and civil society organisations.
Owasanoye, represented by a member of ICPC board, Mrs. Olubukola Balogun, said the design and implementation of NEIP identified and recognised monarchs, religious leaders and civil society organisations as critical stakeholders in its promotion.
He said they formed critical groups of those who were closest to the people at the grassroots and wielded a great deal of influence in initiating and sustaining behavioural change among the people.
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A representative of Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Rev. Johnson Ogunrinde, said it was a pity that the Nigerian society always appreciated ill-gotten wealth.
“It is a pity that when these people come to our community with their money, no one will ask them where they got the money from,” he added.
The Alapa of Apa kingdom, Badagry, Oba Oyekan Ajose, the Possi 3, said corruption had eaten deep into the civil service and agencies.
He said people bought their ways to the top without necessary qualifications.
The Community Development Association Chairman in Lagos, Alhaji Hazmat Azeez, said: “There is need for us as a nation to re-examine the type of government we are running.”
He advised lawmakers to implement laws that would make politicians found guilty of corruption not to contest election again.