Viral • 3h ago
EFCC chair seeks strong whistleblower protection law amid reprisal in Nigeria
Title: EFCC Chair Seeks Strong Whistleblower Protection Law in Nigeria
In a bid to strengthen the fight against corruption in Nigeria, the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has called on the National Assembly to enact a robust law that will protect whistleblowers from victimisation and bureaucratic delays. This appeal comes amidst growing concerns about reprisal against those who dare to expose corruption in the country.
Speaking at a nationwide sensitisation programme in Calabar, Cross River State, Mr Olukoyede stressed that a strong legislative framework is necessary to shield whistleblowers from harassment and ensure that they receive financial rewards promised under the whistleblowing policy without unnecessary delays. This, he believes, will motivate Nigerians to come forward and expose corrupt practices that hinder the country's development.
Interestingly, Mr Olukoyede noted that only a few countries in the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) have enacted whistleblower protection laws. Ghana and Senegal are notable exceptions, underscoring the need for Nigeria to follow suit.
According to the EFCC Chair, the whistleblowing policy should be designed to prevent the theft of public funds rather than just focusing on recovering stolen funds. He also urged lawmakers to domesticate provisions of the United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC), particularly Article 33, which highlights the importance of protecting whistleblowers.
Mr Olukoyede's call for a strong whistleblower protection law is timely, given the rising cases of reprisal against those who have dared to expose corruption in Nigeria. It remains to be seen whether the National Assembly will heed his call and enact a law that will provide the necessary protection for whistleblowers.