By Muhammad Mamman
shocking allegation that Nigerian lawmakers are paying up to ₦3 million ($1,800) to present bills, motions, and petitions in the National Assembly has sparked outrage, with the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) demanding an immediate investigation by anti-corruption agencies.
In a scathing letter to Senate President Godswill Akpabio and House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, SERAP called for the allegations to be referred to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) for a thorough probe. The claims, made by House of Representatives member Ibrahim Auro, suggest a pervasive culture of bribery, with lawmakers allegedly paying between ₦1 million and ₦3 million to advance legislative proposals.
“These allegations are a grave violation of public trust and the constitutional oath of office,” said Kolawole Oluwadare, SERAP’s Deputy Director. “Bribery should never influence the exercise of legislative duties or the running of the National Assembly.”
Auro alleged that lawmakers must not only pay to present bills but also lobby all 360 House members to gain support, further eroding public confidence in Nigeria’s legislative process. SERAP argues that such practices undermine the integrity of lawmaking and violate Section 4 of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution.
The group issued a seven-day ultimatum to the National Assembly leadership to act, threatening legal action if the allegations are not addressed. “Referring these claims to the EFCC and ICPC for investigation would restore public trust in the legislature’s accountability,” SERAP stated.
The controversy has raised fresh concerns about corruption in Nigeria’s government, with citizens and watchdog groups demanding transparency and accountability from their elected officials. Neither Akpabio nor Abbas has publicly responded to the allegations or SERAP’s demands as of Sunday.
