Abstract
Bribery and corruption is a negation of the true principles of gift. It is a conscious inducement for an after favour, and thus, violates the principles of public life. Gift in whatever form is not bad in itself, but becomes bad or a bribe when the intents and circumstances is already pre-staged. In Nigeria, bribery and corruption is condemned as evil but they condones ??goodwill payment?? ??greasing payment?? and ??solvent donations?? from or to persons in positions of authority for facilitation of files, jobs, contracts and appointment etc, thus, practicing bribery and corruption in disguise. This paper adopted the philosophical method using ethical theories with special reference to Aristotle??s virtue ethics theory. The paper focuses on a critical juxtaposition of gift and bribery, forms and cost of corruption on nation building as well as the way forward on how to curb this virus that has eaten deep into the fabric of the Nigeria??s society. The paper observed that the consequences of unethical practices and corruption does not only destroy personal virtue and social values, but as well retard development, weaken social institutions, pervert justice, and thus responsible for the current economic recession and unpurposeful leadership as the country continue to journey without the will. The paper therefore advocated for the moderation of passion through the enactment/enforcement of coercive laws, and as well calls of the government to intensify efforts in carrying out corrupt-free value re-orientation and moral regulation in Nigeria.
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