It seems that corruption is set to be the winner in Nigeria again. What are the odds on it being back in the top 3 when TI's corruption index is next published at the end of 2008? Former Delta State governor James Ibori, who is believed to have stolen over $1 billion during his time in office and now in prison awaiting trial on 129 charges of corruption appears to be the man who is actually running Nigeria and pulling the strings on his puppet Yar'Adua. $1 billion buys a lot of power and votes in Nigeria
Chris Albin-Lackey, researcher on Nigeria at Human Rights Watch, told Reuters that if Mr Ribadu's suspension goes ahead, "the day he leaves office will be the day the credibility of Nigeria's 'war on corruption' is entirely destroyed".
The campaign group Transparency International, describes Nigeria as one of the most corrupt countries in the world.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) under Mr Ribadu has convicted over 150 persons involved in economic and financial crimes since its establishment in 2003.