A ‘corruption-free’ Nigeria and Brazil as hyena, By Festus Adedayo

Unmasking the Myth: Nigeria and Brazil’s Fight Against Corruption Through the Eyes of a Hyena – By Festus Adedayo


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Reimagining Nigeria and Brazil: The Hyena Metaphor in the Fight Against Corruption

For many of us who grew up in Nigeria, our childhoods were steeped in vivid tales drawn from the natural world-stories that blended folklore with the mystique of the animal kingdom. These narratives, reminiscent of the works of D. O. Fagunwa, painted the wilderness as a realm inhabited by cunning spirits, fierce predators, and relentless hunters. Such imagery shaped our understanding of survival, power, and the complex interplay between humans and nature.

The Symbolism of the Hyena in Societal Contexts

In this rich tapestry of storytelling, the hyena often emerges as a symbol of opportunism and cunning, traits that resonate deeply when examining the socio-political landscapes of nations like Nigeria and Brazil. Both countries grapple with endemic corruption, which, much like the hyena’s scavenging nature, feeds off the vulnerabilities within governance structures.

Corruption’s Grip: Parallels Between Nigeria and Brazil

Recent data from Transparency International’s 2023 Corruption Perceptions Index ranks Nigeria at 146 out of 180 countries, while Brazil stands at 96, highlighting persistent challenges in both nations. Despite their differences, the two countries share a common struggle against graft that undermines development and public trust. The metaphor of the hyena aptly captures this dynamic-where corruption lurks, waiting to exploit weaknesses and consume resources meant for the collective good.

Historical Figures and the Struggle for Integrity

Reflecting on historical personalities such as Obasa and Aláàfin Ṣàngó offers insight into leadership and resistance within these contexts. Their stories, intertwined with the capture and control of Lagos, serve as allegories for the ongoing battle between integrity and corruption. Just as these leaders navigated complex power structures, modern governance must confront the persistent ‘hyenas’ that threaten societal progress.

Contemporary Efforts and the Path Forward

Both Nigeria and Brazil have initiated reforms aimed at curbing corruption, including enhanced transparency measures and judicial accountability. For example, Brazil’s Operation Car Wash (Lava Jato) investigation has led to the prosecution of numerous high-profile figures, signaling a commitment to justice. Nigeria, too, has strengthened anti-corruption agencies and embraced digital governance to reduce opportunities for malfeasance.

However, the fight is far from over. It requires sustained civic engagement, robust institutions, and a cultural shift that rejects the normalization of corruption. By reinterpreting the hyena metaphor, we can better understand the nature of these challenges and the vigilance needed to foster a corruption-free society.

Conclusion: Embracing Vigilance and Reform

As we continue to confront the ‘hyenas’ within our systems, the lessons from folklore and history remind us that vigilance, courage, and collective action are essential. Nigeria and Brazil’s journeys underscore the complexity of eradicating corruption but also highlight the potential for transformation when societies unite against these predatory forces.


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