Rule Of Law Remains Most Potent Weapon Against Corruption

The Nigerian Bar Association Anti-Corruption Committee (NBAA-CC) has said the rule of law remains the most potent weapon against corruption in the country.

In a goodwill message for 2026, the Chairman of the committee, Prof. Babafemi Badejo, called on the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice to ensure the prosecution of pending corruption cases and others that require investigation and prosecution.

He said while the challenges remained formidable, the past year had reinforced the committee’s conviction that systemic change is difficult but worth striving for through relentless advocacy, institutional collaboration, and the unwavering commitment of legal professionals.

“The year witnessed significant strides in embedding anti-corruption mechanisms within our professional fabric. The landmark approval by the NBA National Executive Committee (NEC) for the establishment of Branch-level Anti-Corruption Committees stands as a pivotal achievement.

“This decentralised structure is not merely an administrative milestone; it is a strategic move to localise the fight, empower grassroots advocacy, and ensure that ethical vigilance permeates every tier of our association.

“Furthermore, the active commemoration of World Anti-Corruption Day across numerous NBA Branches highlighted a growing, collective resolve to elevate public consciousness and anchor our professional conduct to the highest ethical standards.

“These foundational efforts in prevention, education, and professional mobilisation provide a robust platform for the year ahead. The Committee is poised to improve its efforts towards impact-driven actions. We are advancing strategic partnerships, most notably with the Anti-Corruption Academy of Nigeria (ACAN), to leverage shared expertise and amplify our advocacy through knowledge-based programmes, sustained public enlightenment campaigns, and technical assistance initiatives.”

We would also engage with credible anti-corruption civil society organisations”.

He stated in a recent press release issued on the global Anti-Corruption Day that the NBAA-CC notes and agrees with the recent statement on commitment to the Rule of Law as expressed by the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Honourable Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun.

“The Rule of Law is the most potent weapon against corruption. However, the NBAA-CC hastened to add that the rule of law cannot be achieved with the current level of corruption in Nigeria”, he said.

He said the fight against corruption is a marathon, not a sprint, which demands from everyone, including lawyers, not merely passive compliance with rules, but active stewardship of justice.

He called on lawyers to embrace a renewed resolve to lead by example—in their practices, in our courts, and in communities.

“The NBA Anti-Corruption Committee remains steadfast in its commitment to be a catalyst for this transformation, championing a legal culture where integrity and accountability are non-negotiable, and transparency is paramount.

“Here is to a 2026 defined by courageous actions, fortified integrity, and tangible progress in the pursuit of a just society.