President Bola Tinubu has been named the top individual in the Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project's (OCCRP) "Most Corrupt and Organized Crime Persons of the Year" list for 2024. His history of corruption, alleged criminal activities, and controversial presidency sparked global reactions.
According to Peoples Gazette, President Bola Tinubu has been named the top individual in the world’s "Most Corrupt and Organized Crime Persons of the Year" list for 2024 by the Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP). This dubious honor was awarded after the OCCRP invited people worldwide to nominate those responsible for advancing criminal activities and contributing to widespread corruption.
Tinubu’s place on the list follows Kenyan President William Ruto and former Indonesian President Joko Widodo, who received more votes. Despite this, the main title of Person of the Year went to Bashar al-Assad, the former Syrian president. The OCCRP highlighted Tinubu’s significant role in fostering a corrupt regime during his tenure as the governor of Lagos State from 1999 to 2007, which saw a significant accumulation of wealth under questionable circumstances.
His presidency, which began in May 2023, has also been marred by controversy, particularly surrounding a multitrillion-naira road project awarded to a company linked to his son. Tinubu’s past, including allegations of his involvement in drug trafficking and accusations of certificate forgery, has further fueled the criticism. Though Tinubu has firmly denied the corruption allegations, his involvement in these matters continues to raise concerns.
On social media, Nigerians have shared a range of reactions, from mocking the award to commenting on his controversial legacy. The news has sparked renewed debate about the state of corruption in Nigeria under his leadership.