In order to curb the endemic corruption in Nigeria, a university Don. Professor Emmanuel Enenche Onojah, has advocated for stiffer punishments like in some Asian countries, including the death penalty.

Professor Onojah made the suggestion on Wednesday while delivering his inaugural lecture entitled ?Accountability, Sustainability, and Social Justice: A Catalyst for Nation Building? held inside the auditorium of the Federal University, Lokoja, Kogi State.

He said It was not enough to establish anti-graft agencies like the EFCC and ICPC, but the strict compliance and enforcement of anti-graft laws must be dutifully followed without regard to whose ox is gored.

Prof. Onoja stressed that some countries, such as China, Sweden, Norway, Costa Rica, and Finland, had institutionalized accountability, sustainability, and social justice into their national development agenda with stringent penalties for infractions, which has seen their rapid growth and development even as Nigeria should domesticate these values into the body politic to enhance growth and development.

He added that if stiffer punishment is not meted out to corruption enthusiasts, Nigeria, would continue to live in circles without movement to growth and prosperity.

He said his choice for the title ?Accounting and sustainability and social justice is informed by the centrality of Accountability in effective, efficient, and participatory nation-building, stressing that without it, society might withhold legitimacy from the government that shrouded its activities in secrecy and corruption.

?Accountability, sustainability, and Social Justice are interlinked principles that play a crucial role in nation-building. Accountability ensures that government and institutions are transparent and responsible for their actions, fostering trust among citizens. When leaders are held accountable, they are more likely to make decisions that prioritize the well-being of the population.

?Sustainability emphasizes the need for responsible resource management, ensuring that development meets present needs without compromising future generations. Sustainable practices promote environmental health, economic stability, social equity, and creating resilient communities.

?Social Justice focuses on fairness and equity in the distribution of resources and opportunities. By addressing inequalities and empowering marginalized groups, it fosters social cohesion and strengthens democratic values.

?Together, these elements create a holistic framework that cultivates a just society, encourages civil engagement, and drives economic and social justice into national policies; that enables countries build a strong foundation for long-term development and stability,? he added.

In his welcome address, the vice chancellor, Federal University, Lokaja, Professor Olayemi Akinwunmi, explained that the inaugural lecture is not just an academic ritual; it is a moment of pride and intellectual fulfillment.

?It allows us to showcase the depth of knowledge and research achievements of our esteemed professors. It also provides a platform to highlight the relevance of their work in addressing national and global challenges.

?The theme of this lecture could not be more timely as it addresses critical principles?accountability, sustainability, and social justice?that are vital for navigating the complex socio-economic challenges of our time. Together, these values form the foundation for building a more inclusive, equitable, and prosperous nation,? the VC said. (Daily Sun)

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