ABSTRACT
This abstract provides an overview of the pervasive issue of corruption that resulted to underdevelopment in Nigeria which has been a long standing challenge with profound socio-economic and political consequences. This study focused on five outlined goals to guide its investigation in obtaining research results from its method of data analysis. In the literature review it delved on how Corruption in Nigeria is a deeply embedded problem that affects all aspects of society and its crises result to perpetual underdevelopment because Nigeria's struggle with corruption is characterized by embezzlement of public funds, bribery, nepotism and misappropriation of resources. These corrupt practices undermine government institutions, hinder economic development, and perpetuate inequality.
This study employed the structural functional theoretical framework and utilized the quantitative and qualitative method of data analysis with questionnaires as the primary method of data collection using Egor Local Government Area in Edo State to investigate the effects of corruption that has lead to lack of essential public services, unequal access to opportunities, erosion of public trust in government institutions, stifles foreign investment and economic growth that makes it a significant hindrance to the country's progress. This study utilized the simple percentage and chi square analysis to examine how corruption crises as resulted to underdevelopment encompassing economic, social, and political dimensions that manifests as poverty, inadequate healthcare, insufficient education, and limited access to infrastructure in Nigeria. The findings revealed the causes , forms, and effects of Corruption as well as examining the effectiveness of anti-corruption agencies and the roles of government, civil society and international organisations in curbing corruption. This study combines empirical data, and academic research to provide insights into the multifaceted nature of corruption, its effects and how it has resulted to underdevelopment in Nigeria. This study highlights the roles that can government, civil society and international organisation to combat corruption in Nigeria.
