Exploring the Effectiveness of Anti-Corruption Laws in Nigeria: A Comparative Study of Legal Frameworks and Practical Outcomes
Keywords:
Anti-corruption laws, legal frameworks, practical outcomes, effectiveness, Nigeria.Abstract
Aim: This study aimed to explore the effectiveness of anti-corruption laws in Nigeria by comparing legal frameworks and practical outcomes.
Methods: The study adopted a desktop literature review. The search strategy involved a combination of keywords and phrases related to effectiveness of anti-corruption laws in Nigeria. The data sources included academic databases such as Google Scholar as well as reports and policy documents from Nigerian government and relevant international organizations such as United Nations and Transparency International.
Results: The literature review showed that while Nigeria has enacted several anti-corruption laws over the years, corruption remains pervasive. There are significant gaps between legal frameworks and implementation. Key issues include weak enforcement, lack of political will, inadequate funding and personnel, and impediments in the justice system. Compared to other countries with similar anti-corruption laws, Nigeria performs poorly in terms of perceived corruption levels and prosecution outcomes.
Conclusion: There are gaps between the design and execution of Nigeria's anti-corruption laws. Legal provisions alone are insufficient without effective implementation strategies, political will and an engaged citizenry.
Recommendations: Policymakers should strengthen existing anti-corruption frameworks through improved enforcement mechanisms, oversight institutions and transparency measures. Law enforcement agencies, investigators and judges should collaborate to curb challenges hindering effective prosecution of corruption cases.
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