The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged anti-graft agencies to investigate allegations that lawmakers pay as much as ₦3 million to present bills, motions, and petitions in the National Assembly.
The call follows a claim by House of Representatives member Ibrahim Auro, who alleged that legislators pay between ₦1 million and ₦3 million to have proposals considered.
In a letter signed by its Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, SERAP asked Senate President Godswill Akpabio and House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas to refer the claims to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).
“The allegations that lawmakers pay bribes to present motions and bills are a grave violation of public trust and constitutional oaths of office,” SERAP said, warning that it may take legal action within seven days if no steps are taken.
The group argued that the alleged practice undermines section 4 of the 1999 Constitution and erodes public confidence in the legislature.
Auro had alleged that beyond initial payments, sponsors must also lobby other members to secure support for their bills.