The House of Representatives has introduced a bill designed to enhance the fight against corruption by encouraging whistleblowers to expose corrupt practices, especially within the public sector.
The bill, which proposes a penalty of N2 million or two years imprisonment for anyone who reveals confidential information provided by a whistleblower, will be debated when lawmakers resume plenary next week.
First presented to the House on November 21, 2024, the Whistleblowing Bill aims to establish “a legal and institutional framework for the regulation and management of whistleblowing and the protection of whistleblowers” in Nigeria.
A copy of the bill, sponsored by the House spokesperson, Akin Rotimi, outlines that the proposed legislation is intended to promote and facilitate the reporting of illegal activities that affect the management of public and private offices, as well as national security.
The bill further seeks to ensure the protection of whistleblowers from retaliation or adverse outcomes, ensuring that information or disclosures made by them are “properly assessed, investigated, and acted upon.” It also includes provisions to establish a framework to reward whistleblowers for their courage and contribution.
Rotimi explained that the law would apply to whistleblowers in relation to unlawful activities or offenses concerning terrorism, money-laundering prevention, and prohibition under any relevant legislation.
Part two of the bill, which was exclusively obtained by The PUNCH on Sunday, provides for the establishment of the National Office and National Council for the protection of whistleblowers.
As the House prepares to reconvene for plenary on January 14, 2025, the bill is expected to undergo further legislative scrutiny.