The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged Senate President Godswill Akpabio and House of Representatives Speaker Tajudeen Abbas to refer fresh bribery allegations in the National Assembly to anti-graft agencies for investigation.
In an open letter dated August 16, 2025, and signed by its Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, the rights group demanded that the leadership of the Assembly immediately involve the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).
The call follows a viral video in which a member of the House of Representatives, Ibrahim Auyo (APC, Jigawa), alleged that lawmakers pay between ₦1 million and ₦3 million to present bills, motions, and petitions at plenary.
SERAP described the claim as “a grave violation of public trust and the constitutional oath of office,” insisting that the Assembly leadership must publicly name those implicated and ensure the recovery of any illicit proceeds.
The group also called for protection of Auyo, describing him as a whistleblower.
“Bribery should never have any influence in the exercise of legislative duties or the running of the National Assembly.
The allegations, if proven true, make a mockery of lawmaking and legislative powers under Section 4 of the Nigerian Constitution,” SERAP stated.
The organisation warned that if the allegations are not referred to anti-graft agencies within seven days, it would consider legal action to compel compliance in the public interest.
“Referring the allegations to the EFCC and ICPC would improve public trust in the ability of the leadership of the National Assembly to ensure accountability,” it added.
In his video, Auyo alleged that lawmakers are required to pay millions of naira to table bills, stressing that even after such payments, sponsors must lobby the entire 360 members of the House to secure approval.