By Mrs.Adebanjo Ayomide Temitayo
Corruption is a universal feature in every society. The tendency to be corruptis inherent in human nature. That is why every society and culture has its ownjustice system and established punitive measures for various degrees of corruptpractices.
In as much as it is impossible to completely eliminate corruption in anyenvironment, it is however, mandatory that every society makes an attempt toreduce corruption to the barest minimum. This is because the short andlong-term effects of corruption in any environment can be quite devastating,unfortunately, women and children are worst hit.
The responsibility of reducing or eliminating corruption largely lies with thegovernment, since the power of penalty and control rests with the government atall levels. The government is also the custodian of commonwealth and resourcesof the people.
The sad part, unfortunately, is thatgovernment officials are neck deep in corruption as well, to the extent ofdiverting general funds/resources for personal use. Acts like these havecontributed to the poor state of social amenities as seen in many Africancountries, where social amenities like pipe borne potable water, good roads,electricity, health care facilities, etc. are in a poor state or non-existent.The bulk of the suffering is
borne by the women in those areas.
It is sad but true that many women in rural areas still give birth outside thehospital. Little wonder why the rate of maternal mortality is still rather highin our environment. Even the hospitals are not adequately staffed or equipped.Hardly does any year pass when there is no industrial action by doctors/healthworkers. A strike-action usually occasioned by non-payment ofsalaries/benefits. Considering the peculiar health needs of women especially inareas of menstrual hygiene, pre and post-natal health, any strike action bydoctors or health workers is usually devastating to women Same applies to theabsence of other social amenities like roads, electricity, potable water,unpaid salaries, etc. which are adverse effects of corruption. The women moreat the receiving end because of their domesticated nature.
Our task apart from participating actively inelectoral process is also to keep the governments on their toes to ensure fundsare not mismanaged but judiciously utilized for the maintenance and developmentof the society. We must all join hands together to ensure corruption is foughtto a standstill. This will ensure a better life for women. Once this isguaranteed, the attainment of a virile nation is inevitable.
#GenderAnd Accountability
#GAP-C
#KebetkacheWomen
