EFFECTS OF CORRUPTION ON SERVICE DELIVERY IN NIGERIA: A STUDY OF OSUN STATE PUBLIC SERVICE

Abstract

Corruption is one of the main issues highlighted as having detrimental effects on many countries' socioeconomic growth. In Nigeria, corruption is evident in every aspect of the economy, including public service. This study reveals that corruption affects the efficient provision of services by the Nigerian Public Service. The ability of the government to provide fundamental services in the areas of education, health, water, power, and other basic amenities has been adversely impacted by corruption, a reality widely acknowledged in Nigeria. Hence, this study examined the economic implication of corruption on public service in Osun State, Nigeria, as a point of reference. While corrupt practices are a major contributor to a country's economic decline, it's important to remember that civil servants and public servants commit the majority of corrupt acts. The study relied primarily on qualitative data obtained from secondary sources. The research methodology adopted for this study is content analysis. The paper made an argument using the "Prebendalism Model" as its theoretical framework. The study reveals that corruption is an impediment to the economic growth and development of Osun State. The study comes to the conclusion that corruption in the public sector is a significant barrier to the successful provision of services to the Nigerian population. The authors recommend the need to grant antigraft agencies their own authority. The study recommends that more funds should be invested in education to train and sensitize citizens on the evils of corruption and criminal activities.