How Did We Get Here?” – Activist Johnson Ikechukwu Laments Deep-Rooted Corruption Across Nigerian Institutions
“How Did We Get Here?” – Activist Johnson Ikechukwu Laments Deep-Rooted Corruption Across Nigerian Institutions
A Human rights activist and popular radio presenter, Johnson Ikechukwu*, has raised a powerful alarm over the worsening state of societal values and institutional decay in Nigeria, questioning how the nation has come to normalize corruption at nearly every level of society.
In a heartfelt statement titled “How Did We Get Here?” Ikechukwu expressed deep disappointment at how the focus is often on the Nigerian Police Force alone when discussing corruption, whereas other sectors of society are equally — if not more — compromised.
“We have made the police the poster child of corruption, yet we ignore the rot in other places that affect our daily lives even more,” Ikechukwu stated. “After my investigations and daily interactions with people across different institutions, I can boldly say that nearly every sector is corrupt — from hospitals, schools, public offices, to even our personal relationships.”
Hospitals and Health Workers Under Scrutiny
Ikechukwu did not hold back in describing the condition of many Nigerian public hospitals. He cited disturbing behaviors of health workers — especially nurses — towards patients, ranging from neglect to outright extortion.
> “If you don’t give money, even for something as basic as a thermometer or a painkiller, you could be left unattended. Patients who are already battling illness are forced to beg or bribe for proper care. This is heartbreaking,” he lamented.
Corruption in Education
The activist also pointed fingers at public schools where, despite government policies banning the collection of unauthorized levies, many teachers still find subtle and coercive ways to exploit students and their parents.
“Go to many public schools and you’ll see teachers collecting levies in the name of ‘development fees,’ ‘lesson dues,’ or other coded names. These acts continue unchecked, while our children suffer from poor learning environments and lack of motivation,” he said.
Societal Decline Beyond Institutions
Beyond the public sector, Ikechukwu argued that corruption has also eaten deep into the fabric of private life. According to him, the erosion of values is evident in everyday interactions — from friendships and marriages to job opportunities — where money often dictates outcomes more than merit or goodwill.
“We now live in a society where without money, even love becomes inaccessible. Friendships, opportunities, relationships — everything now seems tied to financial gain. That’s not the Nigeria we dreamt of,” he said with emotion.
A Wake-Up Call
Ikechukwu’s statement has since gone viral on social media and stirred intense conversations on radio, with many Nigerians echoing his sentiments and sharing personal stories that validate his concerns.
He concluded his message with a somber reflection:
“Oh my country! It’s painful to admit, but we are living in a broken system where the rot is no longer hidden — it’s the new normal. We must ask ourselves: how did we get here, and what must we do to find our way back?”
Call for Urgent Reforms
The activist is now calling on Nigerians — both in leadership and at the grassroots — to embark on a collective soul-searching and begin to take concrete steps toward rebuilding trust, honesty, and integrity in all aspects of life.