Corruption Thrives When People Keep Silent Says University of Abuja VC

"Corruption thrives not only because of secrecy but also because people remain silent when they witness wrongdoing," Vice-Chancellor of the University of Abuja, Professor Hakeem Babatunde Fawehinmi, has said.

Fawehinmi spoke today at the University's Anti-Corruption and Transparency Sensitisation Programme organised in collaboration with the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, ICPC.

He reaffirmed the University's zero-tolerance policy on corruption, sexual harassment, cultism, examination malpractice, and every other form of misconduct capable of undermining the institution's values and reputation.

The Provost of the Anti-Corruption Academy of Nigeria, ACAN, Professor Ghali Ibrahim, who delivered the lead paper, said strong institutional policies and effective anti-corruption structures are essential to safeguarding the integrity of Nigeria's universities and strengthening accountability in the university system.

Chairman of the University's Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit, ACTU, Professor Philip Oyediran, described the programme as a call on members of the University community to reject corruption and embrace integrity.

The programme, themed "From Silence to Action: Empowering the University Community to Champion Transparency," also featured presentations by the Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Justice, Mrs. Jedy-Agba, represented at the event, and the Provost, Anti-Corruption Academy of Nigeria, Professor Sherif Ghali Ibrahim. They emphasised the need for collective responsibility in strengthening integrity and good governance within the university system.