Disclosures of unethical practices: framework for the promotion of whistle-blowing in Nigeria's corporate governance

Abstract

Modern corporations are governed by policies established in conformity with legislation in the countries where they operate. Nevertheless, certain corporate decisions are oftentimes left to officials who engage in different kinds of unethical practices. One method of exposing immoral activities in corporations is through whistle-blowing. This paper, using the critical theory framework, evaluates the concept of whistle-blowing and how it can be used to prevent corporate misconducts in Nigeria. While the concept encourages ethical practices and helps in improving internal efficiency in corporations, its use in Nigeria is virtually non-existent. The paper argues that this is attributable to the absence of a comprehensive legislation on whistle-blowing, coupled with the dearth of strong institutions to protect whistleblowers. It suggests that Nigeria needs a comprehensive legal and institutional framework for the regulation of whistle-blowing, if it must enjoy the benefits derivable from it.