BUREAUCRATIC STRUCTURE AND CORRUPTION IN GOVERNANCE ON PEACEBUILDING INITIATIVES IN OGONI, RIVERS STATE

Abstract

The study investigates the impact of corruption in the governance and bureaucracy on peace building process in Ogoni Land. Over the years, the Ogoni Land has experienced conflicts, environmental degradation and social unrest, which have been blamed on lack of good governance and experiences of marginalisation. Despite several government and development efforts towards peace, there remain challenges for lasting peace in the region. It considers how administrative delay and systemic corruption, and the inefficiency of bureaucracy have affected the effectiveness of peacebuilding efforts. It is based on the Weberian Bureaucratic Theory. Data were collected from secondary sources such as policy documents, scholarly publications and reports from governmental and non-governmental organizations. The results suggest that the politicisation of administration, the institutional rigidity, and misuse of public funds has resulted in mistrust in the institutions, lack of ability to implement policies and has affected the participation of the community in the peacebuilding processes. According to the study, the failure in governance plays a role in the further escalation of conflict and mistrust of Ogoni. It suggests structural reforms that foster accountability, transparency and merit in the bureaucracy and better anti-corruption measures and inclusive governance processes. These are essential for achieving long-term peace and stability in areas of Nigeria that are prone to conflict as Ogoni.