FG Considering International Anti-Corruption Court to Fight Graft 

9th October 2023

The Federal Government announced on Tuesday its contemplation of the establishment of an International Anti-Corruption Court, marking a significant shift in its global approach to combatting corruption. The government acknowledged the profound and corrosive impact of corruption on Nigeria's development, stability, and prosperity.

The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), represented by Deputy Director of Public Prosecution, Yusuf Abdullahi Abdulkadir, made these remarks during the 33rd Anti-Corruption Situation Room, a collaborative event between the Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA) Resource Centre and Integrity Initiatives International, held in Abuja.

He explained that Nigeria, deeply affected by corruption, stands to gain immensely from the establishment of an International Anti-Corruption Court. Such a court could serve as a platform to address cases involving individuals and assets located abroad, often linked to large-scale corruption schemes that have a devastating impact on Nigeria's development initiatives. It would complement and strengthen the nation's domestic anti-corruption efforts, reinforcing the fact that corruption's corrosive influence on Nigeria's development, stability, and prosperity cannot be overstated.

The Attorney-General described corruption as a grave threat to the stability, progress, and development of nations worldwide. He likened it to a cancer that respects no boundaries, erodes trust, weakens institutions, stifles economic growth, and perpetuates social injustice.

Olanrewaju Suraj, Chairman of HEDA, voiced his concern about corrupt individuals ascending to higher positions. He pointed out that some ministers facing corruption allegations have been reinstated, while others now head government agencies and occupy influential roles at the federal and state levels. This situation raises questions about the ongoing battle against corruption and its consequences for the nation.