The Global Peace Development (GPD), a non-governmental organisation, has called for the urgent passage of the Whistleblower Protection Bill 2024, to combat insecurity and deepen transparency in Delta State

The NGO also called for the introduction of street profiling as a proactive security measure.Speaking during a one-day capacity-building workshop for media practitioners and social media influencers in Asaba, Delta State, the Executive Director of GPD, Mr. Ebruke Onagite Esike, emphasised that the bill is critical to promoting accountability in public service and protecting citizens who report corruption.

According to him, the call comes amid growing concerns about the safety of whistleblowers and the need for legal frameworks that empower citizens to report wrongdoing without fear of retaliation.

Esike, however, warned against abuse of the proposed law, stating that individuals who provide false or malicious information under the guise of whistleblowing would face consequences.

“The Whistleblower Protection Bill is not just about volunteers. It is about ensuring visibility for every Deltan to freely volunteer information that will add value to governance and the economy of the state,” Esike stated.

He explained that the bill, once passed, would fill governance gaps by protecting individuals who expose misconduct such as fraud, embezzlement, and bribery. It would also contribute to restoring public trust, reviving nightlife, and addressing insecurity across Delta communities.

The bill builds on the foundation laid by the Public Finance Management Law, which was enacted during Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s tenure as Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly.

Esike underscored the importance of the media in advancing the bill’s objectives, describing journalists and influencers as “great actors in community development.” He, therefore, called on them to educate the public, demystify whistleblowing, and advocate for the bill’s speedy passage.

The training, supported by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), also explored how whistleblowing can help dismantle corrupt networks, recover stolen public funds, and strengthen institutional accountability.

He urged participants to use their platforms to create awareness around the significance of the bill and to mobilize public support for its enactment.