Traditional rulers best suited to fight corruption in Nigeria – ICAN

By Chukwuma Umeorah

The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) has said that traditional rulers are best suited to combat corruption in Nigeria given their critical role in promoting transparency and accountability and influencing the actions and decisions of people at the grassroots level of society.

The 59th President of ICAN, Innocent Okwuosa made this statement when he led members of the Institute on a courtesy visit to the paramount ruler of Emohua, Chidi Awuse, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

Okwuosa believes that traditional rulers, as custodians of grassroots accountability deeply embedded in African culture, are uniquely positioned to spearhead the fight against corruption. He added that that their influence at the grassroots level, when supported by the government, can be a game-changer in altering the narrative surrounding corruption particularly in the areas of the management of public funds and fostering peace.

“Traditional rulers are best suited to fight corruption in Nigeria if supported by government. This is because those in government first come from communities where the people’s culture is the order of the day. It will be difficult to ensure accountability and transparency in the management of public funds in Nigeria without the buy-in of traditional rulers. They are the custodians of grass root accountability which has been engrained in African culture and tradition before the arrival of the British.”

The paramount ruler of Emohua, Chidi Awuse, expressed his appreciation for the institute’s endeavours. He also vowed unwavering support for the ongoing anti-graft by fostering accountability in society. “The role of accountants cannot be over emphasised. I will continue to support the Institute’s efforts to combat corruption and contribute to the establishment of a more peaceful Nigeria.”