Corruption, Corruptive Influence and Social Change in Nigeria
Longe, Joshua Sunday

Abstract
The proverbial cultural particularism of hard work, diligence, good family name of Nigerian urbanites seems to have failed in promoting social order in modern Nigeria. Ab initio, strong family values, noble endeavours and diligence were assumed to provide plausible reputation for individuals as they venture into new careers in the society. In contemporary Nigeria, cultural and family values, integrity and honesty have failed. Taking a historical perspective; in Nigeria, development is traceable to indigenous growth that hinge on strong family ties, ethnic and cultural values which provide impetus necessary for socio-economic relationships before imperialism. The functionalism of the early period gave way to the anomaly that characterizes the modern era of exogenous and endogenous social change. Composite cultural and family values have been replaced by barefaced wanton crave for wealth, fame and economicpower in present Nigeria. This paper attempts to explain the „how‟ of corruption, it subsistence nature and consequence for social change in Nigeria today. The contemporary sociological theory bears responsibility of adequacy to explain the change in Nigeria. For example, the “middle range” theory of crime and corruption appears to be a theory of cause and effect. This tendency of causal relationship is predictable and addresses futuristic realisms. It is suggested that Nigeria faux pas is a function of the failure of erstwhile esteemed socio-cultural values in the country. The paper suggest…is there alternative way forward?

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