Lagos introduces whistle-blower initiative to curb fraud, revenue leakages

From Balogun Ayobami, Lagos

The Lagos State Government has launched a whistle-blower initiative against fraudulent activities, and leakages to ensure transparency and accountability in the state.

The initiative, which is being piloted by the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS), seeks to encourage a speak-up culture in the public.

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The Commissioner of Finance in the state, Dr Rabiu Olowo, said 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.

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.

On his part, Beulah Adeoye, a partner with Deloitte, 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 blow the whistle when they see or perceive wrongdoing.