ECONOMIC UNDERCURRENTS: UNRAVELING THE NEXUS BETWEEN LOW WAGES AND CORRUPTION IN THE CIVIL SERVICE OF SOKOTO STATE, NIGERIA

Corruption, a pervasive force impacting political, economic, and social spheres, poses a formidable barrier to development and undermines the credibility of government institutions. This study scrutinizes the far-reaching consequences of corruption within the civil service, emphasizing its deleterious effects on the supply of public goods and services, as well as the broader socio-economic development of affected states. The nexus between corruption, abuse of public power for private gain, and the exacerbation of poverty-related challenges is a focal point of investigation.

The detrimental implications of corruption on economic growth and democratic transition are underscored, drawing from the assertion that corruption in the civil service entails the illicit manipulation of delegated authority. As elucidated by Adam (2015), civil servants, entrusted with delegated authority, engage in unlawful practices that compromise the integrity of public service tasks. This not only impedes bureaucratic progress but also hampers development efforts, exacerbating poverty through low income, diminished health and education services, and heightened vulnerability to economic shocks.

The study examines the multifaceted dimensions of corruption within the civil service, shedding light on its intricate role in hindering political institutions and derailing developmental trajectories. By exploring the intersections of corruption, abuse of power, and socio-economic challenges, this research contributes to the discourse on anti-corruption strategies and institutional reforms. The findings aim to inform policymakers and practitioners seeking effective measures to curb corruption within civil service structures, ultimately fostering a more transparent and accountable governance framework