The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has called on the leadership of the National Assembly to immediately investigate serious allegations that lawmakers are required to pay bribes of up to ₦3 million to sponsor bills, motions, and petitions.
In a statement issued on Sunday, SERAP urged Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas to refer the matter to anti-corruption agencies for a thorough investigation, with a commitment to prosecute anyone found culpable.
The organisation further demanded that any individuals involved in the alleged bribery scheme be publicly identified, and that all illicit gains be fully recovered.
SERAP is also calling for protective measures for Hon. Ibrahim Auyo, a member of the House of Representatives from Jigawa State (APC), who first brought the issue to light.
In an open letter dated August 16, 2025, and signed by SERAP’s Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, the organisation described the allegations as a “gross breach of public trust” and a violation of lawmakers’ constitutional oath of office.
“Lawmakers should never be required to pay bribes to discharge their constitutional responsibilities,” SERAP said. “Bribery has no place in a democratic legislature. These allegations—if true—undermine the rule of law and erode citizens’ faith in the legislative process.”
The organisation warned that the reported practice of paying between ₦1 million and ₦3 million to present bills or motions renders the legislative process a “mockery,” and directly contravenes Section 4 of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria (as amended), which outlines the powers of the legislature.
The letter stated:
“We would appreciate it if immediate action is taken within seven days of the receipt or publication of this letter. Failing that, SERAP will consider appropriate legal actions to compel the National Assembly to act in the public interest.”
SERAP argued that referring the matter to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) would demonstrate the National Assembly’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and the rule of law.
The letter continued:
“By taking decisive and transparent action, the National Assembly leadership has an opportunity to show Nigerians that it is capable of holding itself accountable and is committed to upholding the public trust.”
The group emphasized that the allegations violate both the Nigerian Constitution and key provisions of the UN Convention Against Corruption, to which Nigeria is a state party.
SERAP also asserted that Hon. Ibrahim Auyo qualifies as a whistleblower under Article 33 of the UN Convention Against Corruption, and must be afforded full protection against any form of retaliation.
Quoting Auyo’s allegations, SERAP highlighted his claims that:
“Since I was elected in 2015, no one has ever brought a bill to me to sponsor without asking for money. You have to pay between ₦1 million and ₦3 million to present a motion or bill. After that, you must lobby all 360 members to support it.”
SERAP expressed concern that the “bribe-for-bills” scheme may be more widespread than reported, potentially extending to the Senate.
The organisation concluded by stating that the systemic nature of these allegations signals a deeper crisis of corruption and impunity within the legislature.
“Section 15(5) of the Nigerian Constitution requires public institutions, including the National Assembly, to eliminate all corrupt practices and abuse of power. Upholding Nigeria’s anti-corruption obligations is not optional—it is a constitutional and international imperative.”
