Archbishop Okoh blasts Nigerians

Most Revd Nicholas Okoh, Primate, Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion

The Primate of the Anglican Church, Most Reverend Nicholas Okoh, says the ongoing fight against corruption is an indictment on all Nigerians.


Reacting to the arrest of some judges recently, the Primate explained that corruption cuts across the entire system in Nigeria and that the government should extend the fight to the grassroots.

 “The crusade about corruption is an indictment on all of us, because what I have continued to appeal to government is that after the top echelon the crusade should be spread down the line.

“If you go to even the most local market, you will find corruption there. People selling groundnut they are involved in corruption.

“The university teachers are involved in corruption those of us in the church in one form or the other. So, no one is actually spared.

“What it means is that we have all been sensitised and every nook and corner of the country should be focused to ensure that we produce a better generation after our own that will be free from corruption,” he emphasised.

The government had extended its anti-corruption war to the judiciary, arresting some judges, whom the Department of State Services (DSS) said were suspected for corruption and misconduct.

Since their arrests on October 7 and 8, diverse reactions trailed the action. The judges were alleged to have been involved in corrupt practices and misconduct. But the Primate says only the court can find the judges guilty of any crime.

“It all depends on what eventually is said about the judges concerned.
“If they are found guilty, then it will not affect anything because the crusade would have been a right one.
“If they are found to be innocent, then the call will be for the government agencies in charge to take it easy so that they do not blackmail the government they are trying to serve,” he said.