2027: Corruption, Not Govt, Nigeria’s Biggest Problem, Anglican Bishop

The Rt. Rev. Dr. Owen Nwokolo, Bishop of the Anglican Diocese on the Niger, has identified deeply rooted corruption as the primary cause of Nigeria's ongoing leadership crisis, asserting that the government of the day is not the main issue. Speaking ahead of the 2027 general elections, Nwokolo expressed low expectations for the current administration, suggesting that leadership changes alone will not solve the country's recurring problems.

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I don’t think I have any problem with the present government because I am not expecting any wonderful thing to happen. It is still the other governments that deteriorated something, handing over to another one that will deteriorate it further.

Nwokolo argued that Nigeria's persistent challenges stem from corruption, nepotism, and a leadership culture that has been consistent across various administrations. "The major problem may not be the government that is in power. We have an endemic problem of corruption that has eaten up the society. Anybody you elect is still corrupt," he stated in an interview.

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The major problem may not be the government that is in power. We have an endemic problem of corruption that has eaten up the society. Anybody you elect is still corrupt.

He called for genuine national renewal, emphasizing the need for a fundamental change in values and national orientation. "We need an entire overhaul of our national system to change our psyche for national identity. We are still praying because it is only God’s intervention that will rescue our nation until this total overhaul," Nwokolo added.

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We need an entire overhaul of our national system to change our psyche for national identity. We are still praying because it is only God’s intervention that will rescue our nation until this total overhaul.

Regarding the debate on state police, the bishop acknowledged its potential to address insecurity but warned of its misuse if corruption remains unchecked. He fears state governments might use such forces to victimize opponents. Nwokolo also reflected on his 15 years as bishop, highlighting the church's holistic ministry that combines evangelism with investments in education, healthcare, and community development.

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Ordinarily, state police would be the solution to insecurity. But if corruption is still prevalent… the state government might use the state police to victimize their enemies. The innocent will be victimized.