“Tinubu Ranks Third Among World’s Most Corrupt Leaders – OCCRP Report”
By Okafor Joseph Afam
December 31, 2024
President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria has been ranked the third most corrupt leader in the world, according to a report by the Organised Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP). This ranking emerged after the OCCRP conducted global nominations to spotlight individuals accused of fostering criminal activities and exacerbating poverty in their respective countries.
The OCCRP, a network of investigative journalists and anti-corruption activists, announced that Kenyan President William Ruto topped the list, followed by former Indonesian President Joko Widodo in second place. Despite these rankings, the OCCRP’s primary “Person of the Year” title was awarded to Bashar al-Assad, the recently ousted Syrian leader now in exile in Russia.
“The judges acknowledge the importance of public interest and outrage at corruption,” the OCCRP stated, emphasizing the significance of shedding light on leaders whose actions undermine societal well-being.
According to People’s Gazette, Tinubu, 72, was highlighted for allegedly entrenching a regime of corruption in Nigeria. As Lagos State governor from 1999 to 2003, he reportedly amassed significant personal wealth, benefiting his family and close allies.
Since his inauguration as Nigeria’s president in May 2023, Tinubu’s administration has been marred by controversies. A notable instance was the awarding of the multitrillion-naira Abuja-Calabar road project to a company reportedly owned by his son. This move triggered public outrage and heightened concerns about continued corruption at the highest levels of government.
Tinubu’s alleged history as a cocaine trafficker in Chicago, coupled with accusations of certificate forgery shortly after assuming office, further contributed to his nomination and ranking. Despite these allegations, Tinubu has consistently denied any wrongdoing, dismissing them as politically motivated.
As debates over corruption intensify in Nigeria, the OCCRP’s report has once again brought the global spotlight onto the country’s leadership and governance challenges.
