The African Center for Media and Information Literacy (AFRICMIL), in collaboration with the Center for Information Technology and Development (CITAD), has called on women’s groups and people living with disabilities to take an active role in fighting corruption through whistleblowing.
This appeal was made during a one-day workshop focused on the vital role of women and people with disabilities in promoting whistleblowing and protecting whistleblowers in Nigeria.
Representing AFRICMIL Coordinator Dr. Chido Onumah, Mr. David Onyeacholem emphasized the significant impact these groups can have on the success of whistleblowing in the country.
“Empowering women and people with disabilities not only protects the integrity of whistleblowing but also strengthens our democratic processes,” Onyeacholem stated, noting that their unique perspectives can help uncover injustices and drive accountability within society.
He added that the workshop aimed to encourage these groups to adopt whistleblowing practices to expose corruption and other illegal activities that undermine societal well-being.
Dr. Rukkaya Yusuf Aliyu from Bayero University’s Information and Media Studies Department underscored the importance of engaging women and people with disabilities in whistleblowing to contribute to sustainable nation-building.
She noted that cultural and religious considerations are crucial due to societal norms, urging these groups to integrate their efforts in fighting corruption by combating fraud, raising awareness, and fostering a culture of openness and patriotism.
Mr. Abdulateef Abubakar Jos discussed the media’s role in promoting whistleblowing and protecting whistleblowers.
He pointed out that the media provides a platform for reporting corruption with reliable facts, ensuring compliance with the law. “Journalists need to investigate stories thoroughly before drawing conclusions to showcase not only their ethics but also professionalism,” he added.
Amina Abubakar, a participant living with disabilities, described the workshop as essential for their communities’ efforts to eliminate corruption, noting that they often suffer the most with little concern from authorities.
The workshop was attended by various women’s organizations, people with disabilities, media representatives, and other stakeholders committed to addressing the corruption menace in the state.
