The Chairman of the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB), Abdullahi Bello, has called on Nigerians to report public officials whose lifestyles are not commensurate with their known sources of income.
Speaking during an interview with Daily Trust, Bello disclosed that the bureau is intensifying its efforts to detect illicit wealth through a newly established forensic accounting and financial investigation unit.
According to him, the unit scrutinises asset declarations of public officials to identify unexplained increases in net worth.
“One of the first things I did upon assuming office was to set up a forensic accounting unit. It assesses asset declarations at the beginning and end of a given period, and any unjustified increase is thoroughly investigated,” he said.
Bello, a former staff of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), revealed that several officials — including high-profile individuals — have already been invited for questioning. “This process is ongoing, and very soon, the public will begin to see the results,” he assured.
The CCB chairman stressed the importance of media and civil society collaboration in promoting transparency.
“We want the media to follow our cases closely. If you suspect someone is living above their means, you don’t need to have their declaration to report it. Just report, and we will investigate,” he urged.
He noted that Nigerians can make such reports anonymously to protect themselves from retaliation.
While Nigeria’s whistleblower protection law is yet to be passed, Bello encouraged citizens to come forward nonetheless, saying, “If your motive is to help your community, you can report without revealing your identity.”
On the legal framework, Bello confirmed that the bureau is working on a bill to guarantee protection for whistleblowers who choose to reveal their identities.
He also reiterated the mandatory nature of asset declaration, warning that false or omitted disclosures would attract serious consequences.
He concluded by stating that the CCB is determined to hold public servants accountable, and urged Nigerians to join hands with the bureau in the fight against corruption.
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