Sir Samuel Esson Jonah has observed with profound concern Ghanaians have adapted to corruption, considering it natural and indespensible, even.

"Corruption has become so pervasive that many Ghanaians consider it as an intrinsic part of culture, and not to be corrupt as a social anomaly,” he said.

In corporate circles, the respected businessman bemoaned individuals and organisations regarded ethical dealings as "unbusinesslike" and a sign of inexperience.

The Chancellor of the University of Cape Coast (UCC), Cape Coast, Central region, spoke at the Graphic National Development Series. 

When he turned his attention to politics, he said, "Rather than emulate the selfless spirit of our heroes, governance is replete with scandals, which get worse by the day; and governments do not only spare the corrupt within their own bracket, we hardly hear of disciplinary action against public officials traceable to executive graft, corruption, self-aggrandizement, or unexplained wealth."

Sir Jonah said the corruption was evident even in parliament, ruining the citizenry's confidence in due process.

“When even the legislature, which should embody the principles of law, ethics, and virtue, shows signs of malice, the people’s hope and confidence plummet,” he said.

The iconic businessman asserted corruption, nourished by an “emerging culture that prioritises personal gain over collective well-being,” lay at “the heart of our challenges: economic decline, corruption, environmental degradation caused by illegal mining, and the erosion of patriotism”.

The Graphic National Development Series (GNDS) is an initiative by the Graphic Communication Group Ltd (GCGL) which tables issues of development with a focus on national consensus.