Recent discussions involving Martins Vincent Otse popularly known as VeryDarkBlackMan (VDM),Okuneye Idris Olanrewaju( Bobrisky), the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), and the Nigerian Correctional Service have sparked important questions about whistleblowing in Nigeria and the protection whistleblowers receive.
Nigeria’s Whistle-blowing Policy , launched in December 2016, encourages citizens to speak up about corruption, bribery, financial mismanagement, or looted government funds. Whistleblowers are promised protection and a reward of 2.5%–5% of recovered funds. But the real concern is whether they are getting the protection they deserve.
What is Whistleblowing?
Whistleblowing involves exposing illegal or unethical behavior within an organization. In Nigeria, it is crucial in the fight against corruption. Since the policy’s introduction, whistleblowers have helped recover significant amounts of stolen funds. However, the key question is:
Are whistleblowers adequately protected?
Is VDM a Whistleblower?
In VDM’s case, whether he qualifies as a whistleblower depends on whether he exposed corruption, financial misconduct, or wrongdoing involving the parties mentioned. If so, he should be entitled to the protections under the policy. However, if the information doesn’t meet this threshold, it may not be considered whistleblowing.
Protecting Whistleblowers
One of the most important aspects of the Whistle-blowing Policy is protection. Whistleblowers often face personal risks, including threats, intimidation, or professional retaliation. To ensure the policy works, the government must provide comprehensive protection, including:
1. Physical Protection
Shielding whistleblowers from any threats to their safety.
2. Legal Protection
– Protecting them from retaliation through legal means.
3. Social Support
– Changing negative perceptions and providing support to whistleblowers.
Implications for Future Whistleblowers
How VDM’s case is handled could influence whether future whistleblowers will come forward. If whistleblowers aren’t protected, many might hesitate to expose corruption. The Nigerian government must reinforce its commitment to ensuring their safety.
Summation:
Prioritizing Whistleblower Safety
The situation involving VDM highlights the need for stronger protection for whistleblowers in Nigeria. Are whistleblowers like VDM getting the protection they deserve? Whistleblowers are essential in the fight against corruption, and the government must ensure that the protections under the Whistle-blowing Policy are fully enforced to encourage more people to step forward.
Abu can be reached via danjumaabu3750@gmail.com or +2348062380296
