by Isi Esene

The United States has again reiterated its stand that the Nigerian government is not doing enough in its fight against corruption.

In an editorial published on the U.S embassy website, Terence McCulley, the American Ambassador to Nigeria urged the President Goodluck Jonathan government to step-up its fight against the menace maintaining that only this can show its seriousness about good governance.

According to McCulley, “Corruption in Nigeria diverts financial resources from building roads, hospitals, schools, and otherwise investing in infrastructure that would serve businesses, attract foreign investment, and create jobs. Ultimately, corruption serves to promote criminal and extremist activity by creating barriers to legitimate economic endeavors,” the ambassador said.

“By attacking corruption, Nigeria will send a clear signal the country is indeed committed to good governance, to the security of its citizens, and to its rightful place as a significant actor on the global stage.”

The U.S government has previously shown its displeasure over the FG’s decision to grant state pardon to the former governor of Bayelsa state, Diepreye Alamieyeseigha describing it as a “setback in the fight against corruption.”

Alamieyeseigha jumped bail after being slammed with money laundering charges  in the United Kingdom.

Mr. McCulley also spoke against the senseless killings especially in the Northern part of the country by the Militant Islamic group, Boko Haram and also raised concern over the reported extra-judicial killings by security forces trying to dislodge the insurgents.

He noted that the use of excessive force could be counterproductive.

“We remain deeply concerned about reports of extra-judicial killings, illegal detention, and destruction of property by security forces. Such acts create a deadly cycle of mistrust, harming the very citizens the security forces pledge to protect. We urge the Government of Nigeria to investigate reports of excessive use of force by security forces, and to take the necessary legal actions against those responsible,” he said.

“The fundamental principle remains that a nation’s security forces must protect its citizens: the government of Nigeria remains responsible for providing security for the people of Nigeria, and the United States remains a dedicated partner in this effort.”

The American Ambassador also touched on the freedom of the media calling for a free and vibrant media which , according to him, is crucial to a functioning democracy.

“A vibrant free press is critical to illuminating public discussion on issues key to Nigeria’s democracy, including security and corruption. The silencing of journalists, political critics, and others, whether via arrest and detention, threats, or other forms of intimidation, has no place in a democratic society. Respect for the rule of law is paramount and must start with the government itself,” he said.