When the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) revealed that 58 former governors are under investigation for allegedly looting ₦2.187 trillion over the past 25 years, Nigerians were furious but not surprised.…….CONTINUE FULL READING>>>>>
For decades, state governors—often hailed as “chief executives” of their states—have turned their offices into personal ATM machines. Yet, despite countless probes, endless petitions, and mountains of evidence, not one of them has been sentenced to life imprisonment or permanently barred from politics. Instead, many of these same men walk free, enjoying national awards, cushy appointments, and in some cases, even ministerial positions.
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₦2.2 Trillion—What That Money Could Have Done
To grasp the scale of this alleged theft, let’s put ₦2.2 trillion into perspective:
It could have completely modernized Nigeria’s healthcare system with world-class hospitals in every state.
It could have rebuilt 10,000 kilometers of federal highways, easing the nightmare of Nigerian roads.
It could have funded mass housing projects, reducing homelessness and slums.
It could have kept millions of children in school with better facilities, free books, and qualified teachers.
Instead, Nigeria got half-completed projects, “white elephant” buildings, and empty state treasuries.
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The Endless Cycle of Looting
Why does this keep happening? Because the Nigerian system is designed to reward thieves instead of punishing them.
Governors accused of looting hide under immunity while in office, delaying probes until they step down.
Once out, many decamp to ruling parties to buy political protection.
EFCC cases drag for years, bogged down in technicalities, until public interest fades.
And worst of all, some of these same ex-governors return to power as senators or ministers.
It’s a vicious cycle: loot, escape, recycle into the system, loot again.
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Why No Lifetime Jail Sentences?
In countries with serious anti-corruption frameworks, the looting of even a fraction of ₦2.2 trillion would result in decades of prison time, asset seizures, and political disgrace.
But in Nigeria?
Plea bargains reduce multi-billion-naira crimes to token fines.
High-profile cases collapse due to “lack of evidence.”
Some accused simply die before judgment, and the cases die with them.
The truth is bitter: Nigeria doesn’t lack evidence; it lacks the political will to jail the powerful.…….CONTINUE FULL READING>>>>>
