EXPOSING THE HIDDEN...

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#### picture is mine.

Our society today is flooded with different kinds of human beings, each driven by diverse values, interests, and moral compasses. I was particularly happy when I saw

the theme for this edition on the subject of whistle blowing, because it immediately stirred many thoughts and questions within my heart. It is a topic that touches the conscience of individuals and challenges the ethical foundation of institutions and communities.

What then is whistle blowing? Whistle blowing refers to a situation where an individual within an organization exposes unacceptable, illegal, or unethical behavior to the appropriate authorities or the public. It involves sharing or reporting wrongdoing that may otherwise remain hidden. This could include fraudulent activities, corruption, abuse of power, unsafe working conditions, or violations of laid-down rules and regulations. In many cases, whistle blowing serves as a corrective measure aimed at protecting the common good rather than personal interest.

A practical example can be seen in my own area, where deforestation has become a serious concern. Many communities today no longer have trees that could serve economic or environmental purposes because they have been recklessly destroyed and used for charcoal business. This has resulted in severe environmental challenges such as erosion, climate imbalance, and loss of biodiversity. In response, the Commissioner of Resources and Environment once issued a decree that no individual should invade or cut down any tree without the consent of the appropriate authority.

Reporting those who violate this directive can be seen as a form of whistle blowing, done to protect the environment and the future of the community. There are certain signals or attributes that help in identifying whistle blowing. One of the basic indicators is that the individual involved is usually an insider. Such a person has direct access to information within an organization, making it easier for knowledge of wrongdoing to come to light. History has shown that many organizations have collapsed or been exposed because someone from within revealed hidden truths.

Another key attribute is anonymity. In many cases, whistle blowers choose to remain anonymous in order to protect themselves from retaliation, victimization, or harm. This practice has become increasingly common in the modern world. Whistle blowing plays a vital role in exposing wrong deeds, even though it may not please certain individuals or groups who benefit from corruption. It is often risky and may attract opposition, hatred, or persecution. However, the long-term impact can leave an indelible mark by promoting accountability, justice, and reform.

A clear biblical illustration of whistle blowing can be seen in the story of Joseph. Joseph, a young man loved by his father, often reported to him about the activities of his brothers in the field. He refused to defile himself with lies or corrupt practices. This attitude angered his brothers and led to hatred and conspiracy against him. They sold him into slavery to silence his reports, but God preserved him and turned his suffering into a pathway for greatness. In the end, Joseph’s integrity was rewarded, showing that though whistle blowing may attract pain, God can use it to open new chapters of purpose and destiny. See you in my next post.

As I conclude, would I like to be one of the whistle blower? Hmmmmm it's yes because though not easy considering the status of our security outfit in Nigeria. When you stand for the right thing, you can easily be misunderstood and sometimes prosecuted for saying the truth. God will help us anyways.

Thanks so much for reading.