Theoretical Perspective
As shortly stated above, lack of theoretically strong explanation of corruption in Nigeria, underscores the need for an alternative, all-level operative causal model for its investigation. Consequently, in approaching my research questions, I will deploy the theory of social action of Pierre Bourdieu (1997; 1990; 1992; 1998).
With his concept of mental schemata, Bourdieu challenges the prevalent structure-agency dualism in social thinking as false antimony. He contends that mental schemata and social divisions are connected homologous structures, meaning that the latter is an embodiment of the former. Wacquant quotes Bourdieu thus, “Cumulative exposure to certain social conditions instils in individuals an ensemble
The foregoing presents a good theoretical framework for exploring the complex interactions between external structures and internal dispositions, judgements and rationalisations of corrupt Nigerian politicians. In approaching the research questions, I will assume that the difference between corrupt and incorrupt political leaders in Nigeria lies in their contrasting internal dispositions to corruption, the judgement they impose on objective social realities in Nigeria. Therein lies possible answers to the questions of this research
Data Sources
For the purpose of this project, data will be generated through:
i. Primary sources (observations and semi-structured interviews with government officials convicted for corruption)
Interviews will be conducted under strict anonymity. A snowball strategy will be used to identify and reach every significant agent involved in each selected case. Data from these agents will be obtained through personal visits, telephone calls, emails, etc. The thrust of the interview questions can be modified from case to case, depending on how the project progresses. ii. Secondary sources (archival records, investigative reports, panel reports, government documents, anticorruption bills and agencies (foreign and local)), and iii. Academic literature
Data collection will be from multiple sources. I also hope to draw relevant information from former classmates and colleagues who are not only highly placed in Nigerian politics but are well informed on the field under