Supporting the Fight against Corruption in Nigeria through the Whistle Blower Policy: Challenges and Prospects

Abstract

This paper examined the impact of the whistle blower policy since its inception in Nigeria. It analysed the concept of corruption and corruption perception index ranking of Nigeria by Transparency International. The paper identified the challenges of whistle blower policy in Nigeria to include the negative effect of the policy on the whistle blower, such as; victimization, witch hunting, retaliation, denial of related benefits, recrimination, suspension from work, outright dismissal from service by the employer and lack of sufficient laws to protect the whistle blower .The paper looked at the whistle blower policy as a step in the right direction towards fighting corruption in Nigeria. To this end, the paper recommended, among others, that the whistle blower protection bill should be signed into law and be adequately enforced, while other enabling laws aimed at fighting corruption should be strengthened. This will make the cost of corruption greater than the benefit as culprits would be made to face the wrath of the law no matter who is involved.