The House of Representatives has advanced a bill to amend the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000, proposing mandatory counselling and training for individuals convicted of corruption-related offences. The bill successfully passed its second reading.
Sponsored by Hon. Akiolu Moshood Kayode, representing Lagos Island, the bill seeks to amend Section 67 of the Principal Act by adding three new provisions. These amendments would require magistrates and judges to impose not only imprisonment or fines for corruption-related offences but also a mandatory period of counselling and training for convicted individuals.
During the plenary debate on Wednesday, Kayode emphasized the bill’s focus on addressing the underlying mental disposition that drives the excessive accumulation of wealth. He explained that the proposed counselling and training aim to instill a shift in mindset among offenders.
Additionally, the House resolved to investigate allegations of smuggling involving personnel of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS). This decision followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance, sponsored by Oluwaseun Whingan, the representative for Badagry Federal Constituency in Lagos State.
Whingan cited an incident involving a journalist in Badagry, Lagos state earlier this month who was assaulted while attempting to make video recording of activities at a location he described as a “smuggling zone.
The lawmaker who moved the motion raised eyebrows over the behaviour of the Customs officers.
Among other things, he called for the investigation of the Nigerian Customs Service’s legal framework and the activities of officers of the agency while carrying out their duties
The motion has however been referred to the Committee on Customs and Excise.