CORRUPTION, THE ENIGMA OF UNDERDEVELOPMENT IN NIGERIA

ISSUES, CHALLENGES AND PROSPECTS

Abstract

Psychologists believe that behavior is afactor of its consequence. Using this evidence based paradigm to explain corruption in Nigeria, the paper focused on the socio-psychological factors that induce, promote and sustain corruption in private and public spheres despite
legal and institutional frameworks to curb corruption as a major cause of underdevelopment in Nigeria. While recommending inter alia, the strengthening of existing anti corruption institutions through proper funding, autonomy and access to information especially on
public income and expenditure, the paper concluded that compulsory personality profiling,
mental status examination and other personality information including integrity and competence of intending public especially political office holders may constitute critical prophylactic measures in ensuring sanity, transparency, best practices and development of
Nigeria.