My Books

Criminality in Nigeria: An Exploration from Military Era to Present Day — A Reflection of Society Through Fiction

Criminality in Nigeria did not develop suddenly. It is the result of years of political turmoil, socio-economic imbalances, ineffective institutions, and the slow decline of community values. To comprehend issues such as banditry, cyber fraud, ritual killings, widespread corruption, and state-sanctioned impunity in Nigeria, it is critical to trace their origins to the early years following independence, particularly during the military regime, when corruption and authoritarian governance became ingrained in the public mindset.

This article explores Nigeria’s descent into systemic criminality throughout different periods, and how morality have declined in present Nigerian society . It also considers how literature, especially the two novels “The Rescue” and “More Than Justice,” reflects contemporary Nigerian society, acts as a cautionary tale, and encourages discussions about national moral renewal.

1. The Early Seeds: When Corruption Took Root in Nigeria’s Public Life

In pre-historic Nigeria,

“The peoples who inhabited the areas that now make up Nigeria understood the world largely through indigenously produced knowledge. Such knowledge included existential beliefs about the nature and function of the world, the place of humans in it, and practical and material knowledge about how to survive: farming techniques, medicine and healthcare, politics and inter-group relations, trade, etc. Part of the corpus of indigenous knowledge includes information about the past, often preserved in origin myths and instructive morals. Large amounts of indigenous knowledge from the breadth of Nigerian cultures have been preserved up to the present and continue to shape how Nigerian individuals and groups identify and understand their relationship to the world.”

Matthew M. H. & Toyin, F. (2022, p.3)

Following independence in 1960, Nigeria was filled with promise as a result of abundant natural resources, flourishing institutions, and an optimistic citizenry. However, by the mid-1960s, escalating political strife, ethnic divisions, and electoral misconduct created the conditions for the first military coup in 1966. The coup leaders asserted that their intervention was to eliminate corruption, yet, paradoxically, corruption became more deeply entrenched thereafter.

Corruption manifested in many ways during military regimes. It was at this time that the nation witnessed concentrated, unaccountable authority, and diminished financial scrutiny that rendered public funds susceptible to misuse. Patronage and favoritism became commonplace, as military officers and their associates accessed state resources. Public institutions deteriorated, as they were managed like military barracks instead of civic entities. Mismanagement of the oil boom (1970s–1980s) fostered a culture where national income transformed into personal wealth for the ruling elite. The suppression of dissent ensured that citizens could not challenge governmental fraud or misconduct.

By the time Nigeria transitioned back to democracy in 1999, corruption had become interwoven into the very fabric of governance, law enforcement, commerce, and even social interactions. The military period sowed seeds that subsequent administrations found challenging and impossible to eradicate. Today, these seeds that were sowed over three decades have become trees that have plunged the nation almost to unredeemable state of moral decline.

2. The Democratic Era: New Faces, Old Habits

Many had hoped that democracy would restore the nation to glory when civilians came back to power in 1999. But the structural damage from the military era persisted. Corruption proliferated across various domains. Public offices were transformed into pathways to wealth instead of a commitment to service. Electoral violence and manipulation produced politicians who felt no obligation to their constituents. Police extortion and brutality became commonplace. Judicial compromises enabled influential individuals to evade accountability and youth disillusionment fostered an environment conducive to new forms of crime.

Although democratic leaders established anti-corruption agencies such as the EFCC and ICPC, political interference frequently undermined their effectiveness. Consequently, modern criminality emerged in more audacious and sophisticated manifestations, leading to the rise of banditry, kidnapping and terrorism

3. The Rise of Banditry, Kidnapping & Rural Terror

By the late 2000s, Nigeria experienced a rise in organised crime. Cattle-rustling transformed into bandit militias. Small factions of kidnappers evolved into extensive kidnapping cartels. Ineffective policing and porous borders facilitated the flourishing of arms trafficking. Desperation, poverty, and ideological manipulation propelled terrorist recruitment.

From 2023 to 2025, more that ten thousand people have been killed and over four hundred and fifty thousand displaced all over the country as a result of banditry, kidnapping and terrorism. Currently, banditry in the North-West and kidnapping nationwide represent one of Nigeria’s most significant internal security challenges. Numerous youths, disillusioned by unemployment or radicalised by extremist ideologies, enlist in these criminal organisations for survival, vengeance, or profit.

4. Cyber Fraud: “Yahoo-Yahoo” and the Digitisation of Crime

The surge in internet accessibility during the 2000s gave rise to a new menace – cybercrime. What initially started as minor scams (advance-fee fraud) evolved into Sophisticated hacking networks, International romance scams, Business email compromise, Blackmail and identity theft and Cyber cultism.

The moral decline in Nigeria has resulted in a troubling phenomenon where many individuals now admire internet fraudsters, romanticising their way of life through music, films, and social media. Parents occasionally turn a blind eye. Communities often celebrate ill-gotten gains. The distinction between criminality and achievement continues to fade.

5. Ritual Killings & the Spiritualisation of Crime

Ritual killings are frequently conducted for monetary rituals, signifying a profound moral degradation and a yearning for rapid wealth. The interplay of Unemployment, social pressure for luxury, belief in “fast money” mysticism, weak law enforcement, etc. has rendered ritual killings a terrifying contemporary trend today in Nigeria. These actions highlight how spiritual manipulation, ignorance, and warped societal values can lead young individuals to commit horrific acts.

6. Manifestations of Corruption

In Nigerian history, one consistent truth is that corruption is the driving force behind every criminal issue the country encounters. Its manifestations undermines socio-political institutions, erodes trust in government, disheartens honest citizens, strengthens criminal organisations, fosters inequality and resentment as well as positions crime as the sole avenue for success.

Unless corruption is directly addressed, Nigeria will persist in grappling with the symptoms while failing to eradicate the underlying problem that have brought her to this state of moral decline.

How My Novels Reflect Contemporary Nigeria: “The Rescue” and “More Than Justice”

Fiction serves as a potent tool for comprehending society. Through storytelling, characters, and conflict, we achieve a more profound understanding of the dynamics influencing human actions and national identity.

1. The Rescue

The Rescue illustrates the pressing necessity to reclaim a society overwhelmed by crime, injustice, corruption, and ethical ambiguity. It is a gripping crime-fiction story that explores courage, moral conflict, government goodwill towards peace and security of the people, but due to corruption, achieving such goodwill comes with a price.

The plot revolves around patriotism, the roles of government, security operatives and ordinary citizens in collaborative efforts to combat insecurity and restore peace and justice. The narrative underscores the importance of leadership integrity, citizens’ cooperation in community security, and how such actions results in national unity. The story highlights how individuals can emerge as heroes, underscoring that societal transformation begins with those committed to opposing corruption. The Rescue transcends mere entertainment. It symbolises collective accountability.

2. More Than Justice

More Than Justice explores the indistinct boundary between justice, retribution, and survival in a society where institutions falter. It reflects Nigeria’s current circumstances, spotlighting the struggles of youths in a society overtaken by moral decline and how circumstances influence some individuals to resort to taking laws into their own hands due to a lack of faith in the system.

It is indeed, a socio-political conscious novel that delves deep into the human side of justice and morality, exploring the consequences of corruption, abuse of power, and apathy. The twists of events and thrilling action-filled story of Straus Nimble as well as his morality being put to test by circumstances in life, challenges readers to pursue justice not just as a legal concept but as a moral and civic duty.

More specific, the novel explores criminality as not simply black and white; it is influenced by poverty, political manipulation, and dysfunctional systems.

The purpose of these books serve as reminders that, genuine justice must extend beyond mere punishment; it must tackle the fundamental causes of crime.

How Can Nigeria Tackle Systemic Criminality?

Addressing the challenges in Nigeria necessitates a unified effort, political determination, and a transformation of institutions. The proposed solutions should tackle structural, cultural and societal challenges.

1. Strengthening Institutions

  • Professionalise and remove political influence from the military, police, EFCC, judiciary, etc.
  • Implement consequences regardless of an individual’s status.
  • Minimise redundancies and inefficiencies within government operations.

2. Investing in Youth

  • Broaden vocational and digital skills training opportunities.
  • Support the creative sectors.
  • Encourage entrepreneurship through the provision of grants and loans.

3. Community-Level Policing

  • Foster trust between the community and law enforcement agencies.
  • Utilise trained local personnel for intelligence gathering.
  • Promote cooperation rather than instilling fear.

4. Economic Reforms

  • Broaden the economy beyond reliance on oil.
  • Establish incentives for agriculture, technology, and manufacturing sectors.
  • Tackle poverty and unemployment, which are significant contributors to crime.

5. Revive Cultural, Ethical Reorientation & Value Systems

  • Initiate nationwide campaigns for moral education.
  • Involve religious and traditional institutions in the process.
  • Highlight role models who exemplify integrity rather than those who have acquired wealth through unethical means.

6. Technology-Driven Security

  • Implement surveillance systems, biometric technologies, and data analysis techniques.
  • Safeguard borders through the use of drones and digital surveillance systems.
  • Enhance tools for military and police investigations.

7. Literature & Public Dialogue

Works such as “The Rescue” and “More Than Justice,” ought to be included in national discussions.
Through the art of storytelling, Nigerians can face difficult realities, reflect, and envision a more promising society. Literature serves as one of the most potent instruments for awakening the conscience. At a time like this, when deterioration of institutions and national morality is at stake, the journey towards national revival and healing can only commence when we confront uncomfortable realities, insist on accountability, reform ethical standards, and provide youth with alternatives to criminal behavior.

“The Rescue,” and “More Than Justice,” serve as both cautionary tales and guiding lights. Through fiction, they reveal our true selves and the potential we possess.

Nigeria can indeed be saved.
True justice is attainable.
But this can only be realised when we collectively agree that criminality is not our fate.

Basil Ukezi

ukezibasil@gmail.com

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How Sweet is the Man?

Over the years, Cross River State have had governors who were known by other names, outside their real names. Sometimes, their names resonate with their political philosophies. This article narrows and spotlights His Excellency, Bassey, Edet Otu, the Governor of Cross River State, fondly called, “Sweet Prince.” Not many people have considered the usage of the word, “Sweet,” as a prefix to the Governor’s name. The word itself in English Language, is an adjective, but its function as a figure of speech is determined by its usage.

Its usage in “Sweet Prince,” however, maintains its definition as an adjective, prompting the question, “How Sweet is the Man?” The man featured here, His Excellency, Bassey, Edet Otu, have admirable characteristics that define true leadership – empathy, human dignity, love and inclusion. Media observers have noted that he has embraced a “people-centric” approach, which stands in stark contrast to governance models that favour elites or political insiders.

On his 66th birthday, Otu commenced the celebrations by reaching out to widows across all 18 local government councils in the state, distributing relief and illustrating that governance is all about kindness. He has visited orphanages, homes for the elderly, and even correctional facilities to provide support, review long-standing inmate cases, and pledging to facilitate reintegration for deserving individuals.

These actions are significant, visible, directly address otherwise marginalised communities, and foster trust. For many in Cross River State, “Sweet Prince” is not merely a nickname, it has evolved to represent hope, fairness, and dignity for all, irrespective of status.

In a political landscape accustomed to transactional politics, Otu’s calm confidence, humility, and open-door approach appear almost revolutionary. As one tribute articulates: “He leads not as one consumed by power, but as a shepherd guided by conviction.”

Otu’s leadership encompasses not only compassion but also emphasises competence and innovation. His administration has adopted data governance as the foundation of development planning, leading to the digitalisation of the state’s asset registry which allows for real-time tracking of government properties.

This data-driven strategy is not merely bureaucratic. It has resulted in tangible real-world effects. According to reports, over 5,000 farmers have been employed through agriculture-boost programmes, and food production has reportedly increased by approximately 30%.

By systematically utilising soil and weather data to inform farming and planting decisions, Otu’s administration is aiding the transition of agriculture from subsistence to sustainability, and positioning Cross River State for future growth.

Photo credit – Solomon Azu – The Guardian NP

This dependence on data and strategic planning demonstrates a leadership style that prioritises foresight, accountability, and sustainable stability. It indicates that he is not merely pursuing immediate successes, but rather establishing frameworks designed to last beyond his tenure.
Under Otu’s “People-First” political philosophy, his administration has initiated extensive reforms across various sectors as highlighted below:

Infrastructure & Connectivity

The government has actively engaged in the construction and rehabilitation of roads spanning from urban thoroughfares in Calabar to rural pathways connecting isolated regions. These initiatives are enhancing mobility, trade, and the integration between rural and urban areas.

Economic Revival & Industrialisation

Acknowledging the necessity to expand beyond Federal funding, His Excellency has rejuvenated once dormant industrial initiatives, such as a noodle manufacturing facility, a poultry processing operation, and a government-operated pharmaceutical enterprise with the goal of enhancing local production, generating employment opportunities, and increasing state income.

Agriculture & Food Security

With a strategic emphasis on agriculture, his administration is promoting the cultivation and processing of essential and cash crops such as cassava, cocoa, maize, and oil palm, aimed not only at local consumption but also with a focus on export opportunities.

Education & Human Capital

Acknowledging education as a fundamental pillar of sustainable development, initiatives are being implemented to enhance institutions, provide ongoing training for educators, and utilise technology to update curricula in order to equip a generation that will be capable of competing on a global scale.

Healthcare & Social Welfare

With the enhancement of health facilities, the hiring of healthcare staff, and focused initiatives directed at the vulnerable populations, there is a revitalised dedication to guaranteeing fair access to fundamental health services.

Culture & Tourism

Recognising the importance of heritage and leisure, Otu’s administration has rejuvenated public areas, incorporated cultural elements into urban design, and enhanced tourism by upgrading facilities. A testament to sustainable development through identity and history is visible in the ongoing rehabilitation of the famous cultural centre.

Through these reforms, citizens can taste the “Sweetness” of true leadership which His Excellency, Bassey, Edet Otu is an example of. “Sweet Prince” is striving for a comprehensive transformation, encompassing not only infrastructure but also mindset, opportunity, and the social fabric.

In Nigerian politics, frequently characterised by rhetoric, unfulfilled promises, and a focus on the short term, the leadership of Bassey Otu is particularly notable. What renders his “Sweetness” in style of leadership are these combination:

  • Heart + Head: He leads with empathy, showing concern for the vulnerable, engaging with citizens, and providing assistance. However, he also operates with intellect, utilising data governance, formulating economic strategies, and implementing structural planning.
  • Vision + Pragmatism: He aspires greatly, advocating for industrialisation, economic diversification, and extensive development. Yet, he anchors those aspirations with practical, incremental plans that yield concrete results.
  • Inclusivity + Stewardship: His governance is not limited to serving a select few as practised in among many around the country. He strives for a state where every individual feels acknowledged, listened to, and appreciated. In an era when many perceive a disconnect from the government, this is significant.

For the people of Cross River State, it is easy to tell of how sweet Otu’s administration is. Most appropriately, it is referred as the “Season of Sweetness.”

For the remainder of Nigeria, his approach contests an outdated notion that effective leadership must be confrontational or ostentatious. Instead, “Sweet Prince” presents a more subdued, perhaps, more modest-style of leadership that knows the time to be assertive when necessary, gentle when feasible, and always committed to service.

This exposition on “How Sweet is the Man?” showcases Governor Bassey, Eder Otu’s governance as a model for exemplary leadership in Nigeria. Cross River State is lucky to have discovered more than just a governor whose political ideology is sweeter than honey – by putting the “People First” above his ambition. Sweet Prince signifies an era where leadership transcends glamour and self-promotion to embrace that of service, dignity, and collective prosperity.

Billboard

The Rescue for Justice: Awakening National Consciousness

“The trouble with Nigeria is simply and squarely a failure of leadership.
There is nothing basically wrong with the Nigerian character. There is
nothing wrong with the Nigerian land or climate or water or air or anything
else. The Nigerian problem is the unwillingness or inability of its leaders to
rise to the responsibility, to the challenge of personal example which are the
hallmarks of true leadership.”

The above quote is a text from “The Trouble with Nigeria,” attributed to one of the world best writers of Literature-in-English, Chinua Achebe, an icon in Nigeria literary society. The above description of the problem with Nigeria goes beyond Achebe’s exposition in my view. It is difficult today to trust anyone in Nigeria. Why do people distrust themselves so much? When issues of morals are discussed publicly, accusing fingers are pointed at certain people, but Nigeria consists of all those, whom by nature, have their biological origin tied to the nation. So, in my opinion, we are all that is wrong with Nigeria. How?

The answer lies where Nigeria currently finds herself – at a time that moral values are rapidly declining, ushering into the nation’s landscape a generation of notoriously corrupt leaders, terrorism on the rise, youth addictive behaviours, religious deceit and fanaticism, criminality, and so on. On the global scale, especially in Europe and America, being a Nigerian puts you on the “watchlist.”

Nevertheless, once in our history, Nigeria was characterised by a robust set of communal ethics or moral values that promoted reverence for elders, the dignity of labour, collective responsibility, and a profound apprehension of wrongdoing. Today, our nation now experiences a rapid decline in moral values that permeates every level of society. From the village square to the highest echelons of power, instances of moral degradation are prevalent, influencing our national identity and jeopardising the future we aspire to create.

This predicament did not arise suddenly. It has insidiously infiltrated the very foundation of the Nigerian lifestyle and impacting how we lead, learn, work, trade, worship, and even dream. It is this disconcerting reality that motivated my literary works, “No Reason to Commit,” “The Rescue,” and “More Than Justice.” These narratives are not born solely for entertainment purposes but to address the uncomfortable truths of our society and ignite a national dialogue regarding integrity and conscience as well as challenge Nigerians to rediscovering the moral values that once shaped our identity.

It would be fictitious to state of any part of our society that is not already contaminated or compromised by the decline in morality. Is it the everyday Nigerian? We find ourselves at the motor parks, markets, communities, churches/mosques, schools, hospitals, banks, private/public offices, and so on, where simple ethical lapses which were once condemned are now seen as normal.

These simple ethical lapses now seen as normal, results to a corrupt society. A perfect example is portrayed by the Nigeria socio-political landscape, which often mirrors the weaknesses of the society it governs. Some people may wonder why I chose to write crime fiction novels at a time like this. The reason is because, fiction is like a mirror. It reflects our weaknesses without pointing accusing fingers at anybody in particular.

Through my fiction works, we, as people of Nigeria, have the opportunity of retrospection on our national moral values. As we read these books individually, we come across the characters, conflict, and consequences. After perusing these books to uncover the stories in them, I urge you to ask yourself, “What kind of person am I becoming?” “What moral values do I uphold or ignore?” and “How do my actions affect the society?”

These works will reveal the roots of crime, impact of corruption on society, the dangers of normalising wrongdoing, how leadership compromises affect society, and the cost of moral compromise to both individual and society. Similarly, the books explore the timeless value of truth, courage, collaboration and accountability as important values that lead to making nations great. Yes, Nigeria can become a great nation again and it is through collaboration that this dream will become possible.

God bless Cross River State, God bless Nigeria.