The federal government has announced the policy of rewarding those who expose corruption and other financial crimes.
Kemi Adeosun, minister of finance, made this known while briefing state house correspondents after the federal executive council (FEC) meeting.
Adeosun said council had approved payment of not more than five per cent of the recovered sum to any one who successfully provides relevant information to anti-graft agencies.
She said this is meant to consolidate on the ongoing anti-corruption campaign of the federal government, adding that the identity of the whistleblower would be protected.
She revealed that very soon, the national assembly will give attention to a bill on the policy.
“If you whistle blow in public-spirit and in good faith, you will be protected. If you feel that you have been treated badly because of your report, you can file a formal complaint,” she said
“If you have suffered harassment, intimidation or victimisation for sharing your concerns, restitution will be made for any loss suffered.”
She added that “If you have already submitted your information, you can also check the status of your report on the portal”.
She listed the types of information to be submitted as: mismanagement or misappropriation of public funds and assets financial malpractice or fraud, collecting / soliciting bribes, fraudulent and unapproved payments, splitting of contracts and procurement fraud (kickbacks and over-invoicing etc.)
Adesoun said the whistleblowing does not apply to personal matters concerning private contracts or agreements.
She said the whistleblower could be internal stakeholders like government employees; inter-government stakeholders, institutional stakeholders and members of the public.
Adesoun added that whistle-blowers choosing to remain anonymous can submit documentary evidence on the portal.
“You can also provide specific and fact based information such as what occurred, amount involved, who was involved and dates of occurrence on the portal,” she said.
She said information provided will be reviewed and analysed to determine whether or not to open an investigation on the matter, and that if it involves a criminal case, “it will be referred to relevant agencies”.
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