By joshua 
FUL 37th Inaugural Lecture: Don Calls for Death Penalty for Corruption in Nigeria.
The 37th Inaugural lecture of the Federal University Lokoja, Thursday turned out to be unprecedented, with nearly the city of Lokoja, converging on the lecture auditorium at the Adankolo temporary campus of the University.
The State Governor, Alhaji Usman Ahmed Ododo, represented by his Deputy, Elder Joel Salifu Oyibo, led top Government functionaries, academic dons, captains of industries and politicians from all divide in attendance to be part of an Inaugural lecture said to be one of the most controversial, with thought provoking topic that elicit interest.
A Professor of Political Science and Rector of Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja, Salisu Ogbo Usman, who was the centre of attraction, recommended death penalty for Nigerians found guilty of corrupt practices in all ramifications.
The Rector also advocated that corrupt practices should be rated as a capital offense in Nigeria’s legal system to discourage people from engaging in the negative trend, which has caused havoc and devastating effects and setbacks for the nation’s growth.
The Rector made the call while delivering the 37th Inaugural Lecture Series of the Federal University, Lokoja, said the issues of corruption in the Nigerian context has many sided definition, depending who is involved.
The Rector, in his lecture titled Corruption Versus Corruption: Unpacking The Wuru-Wuru of the Anti-Corruption Crusade In Nigeria, lamented the menace of corruption in Nigeria’s political and socio-economic landscape.
According to Professor Salisu Ogbo Usman, the time has come for the Nigerian Government to tackle the development, which he said has battered the image of the country globally.
He noted that the manifestation of corruption in Nigeria was due to the scarcity of living essentials (including clean water), creating fertile ground for corruption. Basic amenities like boreholes become “democracy dividends” used for political leverage.
Prof. Usman highlighted the growing spirit of materialism and craze for wealth in society, where emphasis shifts from ascribed status to achieved status, often through corrupt means.
He also observed that corruption thrives in Nigeria despite numerous agencies, due to the politicization of anti-corruption agencies and the abuse of plea bargains as escape routes for the wealthy.
The Rector suggested reframing anti-corruption efforts beyond performative campaigns, focusing on systemic reform and prevention, strengthening institutions, diversifying the economy, and prioritizing ethical reorientation and civic values restoration.
In his speech, the Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo praised the Federal University Lokoja (FUL) for hosting a meaningful and thought-provoking 37th Inaugural Lecture, describing it as an important moment for reflection on Nigeria’s governance challenges.
The Governor who was represented by his Deputy, Comrade Joel Salifu, congratulated the inaugural lecturer, Professor Salisu Ogbo Usman, on reaching a major academic milestone, noting that an inaugural lecture is a product of years of hard work, research, and service. He described the topic of the lecture, as bold and timely, especially at a time when Nigerians are demanding honesty and accountability in public life.
He noted that corruption continues to hurt the nation by weakening institutions and slowing development. According to the Governor, the fight against corruption must be sincere and open, warning that when it is driven by politics or personal interests, it loses public trust.
Explaining the idea of “wuru-wuru,” the Governor said it reflects situations where actions look good on the outside but hide selfish motives underneath.
He stressed that genuine anti-corruption efforts must be based on fairness, accountability, and strict respect for the rule of law, not media drama.
Governor Ododo also emphasized the vital role of universities in national development, noting that academic institutions help shape public thinking, challenge bad policies, and offer practical solutions to governance problems.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to transparency and responsible use of public funds, adding that the Kogi State Government is focused on strengthening systems that reduce abuse of office and improve service delivery to the people.
The Governor assured the Federal University Lokoja of continued support and partnership, stating that education, research, and knowledge remain powerful tools in the fight against corruption, ignorance, and underdevelopment.
In his welcome address, the Vice Chancellor of the Federal University, Lokoja, Professor Olayemi Akinwumi, emphasized the importance of inaugural lectures in celebrating academic excellence and reaffirming the university’s role as the conscience of society.
The event attracted academias from various institutions, the first of its kind since the commencement of the inaugural lecture with government officials, traditional rulers, and students, making it a rich gathering of ideas and honor.
High point of the ceremony was the presentation of an Award of Excellence to the inaugural lecturer, Professor Salisu Ogbo Usman, by the Federal University Lokoja, in recognition of his outstanding academic contributions. The award was presented by the Deputy Governor.