Olukoyede seeks strong legal shield for whistleblowers in anti-corruption fight

Ola Olukoyede, Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has called on the National Assembly to enact comprehensive whistleblower protection laws to strengthen the country’s anti-corruption framework.

Olukoyede made the appeal in Calabar during a nationwide sensitisation programme on the implementation of Nigeria’s whistleblowing policy.

Speaking on the theme, “Benefits of the Whistleblowing Policy in the Fight Against Corruption in Nigeria,” the EFCC boss emphasised that the absence of a robust legal framework continues to expose whistleblowers to risks, including victimisation and bureaucratic bottlenecks in accessing financial rewards tied to disclosures.

He stressed the urgent need for legislation that would guarantee the safety of individuals who expose corruption, noting that such protections are critical to sustaining public participation in anti-graft efforts.

“I reiterate that we need a robust Act of the National Assembly to protect those who risk their lives to make disclosures on corruption.

“It is depressing that in a region where deeply rooted corruption undermines development efforts, only Ghana and Senegal have enacted whistleblower protection laws within ECOWAS,” he said.

Olukoyede, who was represented at the event by Oshodi Johnson, Acting Zonal Director of the EFCC in Uyo, also urged citizens to view whistleblowing beyond financial incentives.

According to him, the policy should primarily serve as a preventive mechanism against the looting of public funds, rather than a reactive tool for recovery. He warned that once funds are stolen, full recovery is often difficult or impossible.

“The appeal is for citizens to prioritise whistleblowing that prevents the theft of public resources, rather than focusing solely on financial rewards. Once funds are looted, the chances of full recovery are slim,” he said.

He further called on lawmakers to domesticate Article 33 of the United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC), which provides for the protection of individuals who report corruption cases, as part of efforts to align Nigeria’s legal framework with international best practices.

According to a statement by Dele Oyewale, EFCC’s Spokesman, the sensitisation programme drew participants from anti-corruption agencies, lawmakers, security agencies, and other stakeholders involved in the fight against corruption.