IIARD International Institute of Academic Research and Development

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RELIGIOUS AND CULTURAL PRACTICE (IJRCP )

E-ISSN 2579-0501
P-ISSN 2695-219X
VOL. 9 NO. 3 2024
DOI: 10.56201/ijrcp.v9.no3.2024.pg1.20

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Consequences of Corruption for Future Generations: Lessons From 2 Kings 5:27 For Nigeria

Thaddeus Grace Sofi, Akpo Enock, Okorie, Moses Ogbonnaya, Ishaya, Fred Donn, Dalyop Stephen Choji

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Abstract

This article explores the impact of individual greed on national reputation, using the biblical story of Gehazi (2 Kings 5:20-27) as a lens to analyze contemporary corruption in Nigeria. The study employs a qualitative research method, incorporating case studies, literature reviews, and thematic analysis to understand how personal dishonesty and ethical failures at the individual level can have extensive repercussions for national governance and public trust.The pervasive issue of corruption in Nigeria, where individual acts of greed and deceit undermine public confidence in institutions and exacerbate socio-economic inequalities. Despite various anti-corruption measures, the persistence of corrupt practices continues to hinder sustainable development and equitable governance. The theory of institutional integrity, which posits that individual behavior significantly influences institutional trust and efficacy. This theory is applied to examine how personal moral failures, akin to Gehazi's actions, erode institutional credibility and contribute to broader systemic corruption. The lessons from Gehazi’s story into the Nigerian context, highlighting the detrimental effects of corruption on public services, economic opportunities, and social justice. This framework illustrates the connection between individual ethical lapses and their broader implications for national integrity and development. The article emphasizes the necessity of fostering a culture of integrity and accountability to mitigate the adverse impacts of corruption. By learning from historical and biblical narratives, Nigeria can implement more effective anti-corruption strategies and promote a governance system characterized by transparency and ethical conduct.

keywords:

Corruption, Governance, Integrity, Accountability, Ethical Behavior

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