Lagos Launches Whistle-Blower Initiative To Curb Fraud, Revenue Leakages

The Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu led government of Lagos State has launched a whistle-blower initiative in an attempt to curtail fraudulent activities in the state.

Announcing the initiative, the state commissioner of finance, Dr Rabiu Olowo said it will block leakages and as well ensure transparency and accountability in the state.

The government, through the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS), is hopeful that the initiative will encourage citizens to speak up and report unethical behaviours by some persons.

Olowo explained that the launch is primarily to promote the speak-up culture in the state which, according to him, would foster good corporate governance in the state, supported by policies and procedures.

He reiterated the state’s commitment to upholding transparency and accountability.

On his part, the executive chairman of LIRS, Ayodele Subair, said the initiative would provide an avenue for employees, stakeholders, and the general public to report fraudulent, unethical conduct without fear of backlash.

Sharing his thought also, a partner with Deloitte, Beulah Adeoye noted that the initiative would provide absolute anonymity to individuals.

Adeoye, who assured whistle-blowers of their safety and confidentiality, stressed that it is the social and civic responsibility of citizens to report wrongdoing in their society.