JUSTICE AND CONTENTMENT: PANACEAS TO BRIBERY AND CORRUPTION IN THE NIGERIAN SOCIETY

Abstract

Corruption in Nigeria has reached an unprecedented proportion in recent times. Its daily rise is an indicator that the “monster” appears to elude all known solutions. This work is aimed at contributing to the ongoing search for a Christian response in curbing corruption in Nigeria. A preliminary review of literature reveals that corruption, which has become endemic in Nigeria, is a bane on her development and economic prosperity. In an attempt to curb it, several suggestions have been put forth by scholars, organizations, and various stakeholders across the country. However, the beam light has not been focused much on contentment and justice which this piece refers us toa biblical principle/virtue tobe harnessed by public office holders, and all and sundry. This biblical principle can be contextualized to minimize corruption in Africa. Using a systematic review of literature as well as biblical exegesis and interpretation, the work argues that,lack of the application of biblical principles of justice and contentmentare the reasons,bribery and corruption continue to unleash mayhem in Nigeria.Thus, if all stakeholders and leaders will be content with their pay, instead of cutting corners to loot public funds for personal advantage, bribery and corruption would have been minimized drastically if not completely eliminated. It also recommended that biblical concept of contentment and justice should be emphasized notonly in places of worship but in various capacity-building workshops for public office holders in various in Nigeria.