A recent global report has placed Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu among the world’s most corrupt leaders, ranking him third on the list. The report according to the Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP) which evaluates the financial and ethical conduct of world leaders, has sparked widespread attention and criticism. It highlights concerns over corruption and governance in Nigeria, intensifying calls for greater transparency and accountability in the country’s leadership.

President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria has been ranked as the third most corrupt leader in the world, according to the Organised Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP). 

This ranking came after the OCCRP called for global nominations to highlight individuals advancing criminal activities and worsening poverty.

The OCCRP, which coordinates a network of investigative journalists and activists, revealed that Kenyan President, William Ruto, received the highest number of votes. 

Tinubu was listed third, following former Indonesian president, Joko Widodo.

Despite the vote, the main “Person of the Year” title was awarded to Bashar al-Assad, the recently ousted Syrian leader who fled to Russia.

“The judges acknowledge the importance of public interest and outrage at corruption,” organisers at OCCRP stated. 

According to People’s Gazette, Tinubu, 72, was allegedly noted for entrenching a regime of corruption in Nigeria. 

As governor of Lagos from 1999 to 2003, he amassed significant wealth for himself and his family.

Upon becoming Nigeria’s president in May 2023, Tinubu awarded a multitrillion-naira road project to a company run by his son. 

The controversial Abuja-Calabar route project heightened fears of continued corruption. 

Additionally, Tinubu’s history as a cocaine dealer in Chicago influenced the nomination process for the OCCRP ranking. 

Allegations of certificate forgery also surfaced shortly after his inauguration.

Tinubu has strongly denied all allegations of corruption.