Exterminating Corruption in Nigeria: The Cressey’s Approach

Abstract

The two objectives set for this research were to assess how well, Cressey’s hypothesis, also known as fraud triangle theory, can explain the reasons behind corruption in Nigerian institutions, and to assess the significance of capability from the fraud diamond theory, towards the detection and prevention of corruption in Nigeria. The researcher adopts a critical review approach of past literature. From the conclusion reached, two recommendations for successful eradication of corruption in Nigeria are: (1) to adopt the Cressey’s fraud triangle approach as well as the fraud diamond to fight corruption (in micro-level), from organization to organization and (2), to adopt a more fundamental approach similar to the Hong Kong’s Two-Pronged approach to improve overall accountability and fight opportunity for corruption from a wider macro level. Suggested step for the federal government of Nigeria to successfully fight corruption at a macro level, is to merge the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to form one single and properly resourced independent corruption-fighting agency, similar to that of Hong Kong’s Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC).