By Jabiru Hassan
The Centre for Anti-Corruption and Open Leadership (CACOL) has condemned the recent revelation by a member of the House of Representatives from Jigawa State alleging that lawmakers pay up to ₦3 million as bribes to present motions and bills at the National Assembly.
In a statement signed by its Director of Administration and Programmes, Tola Oresanwo, on behalf of the Chairman, Debo Adeniran, CACOL described the allegation as “despicable, condemnable, and a major setback for democratic governance in Nigeria.”
The group noted that such a practice undermines legislative integrity, erodes public trust in parliament, and weakens the principles of transparency and accountability essential to democracy.
“Given the vital role of the legislature in lawmaking, oversight, and representation, allowing such practices to persist will weaken governance structures, promote corruption, and silence genuine voices advocating for the people’s welfare,” the statement read.
CACOL called on anti-graft agencies, including the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), to urgently investigate the allegation.
The group insisted that Nigerians deserve to know who collects the alleged payments, how the money is used, and why such demands exist within the National Assembly.
“Those found culpable, whether individuals or groups, must be exposed and made to face the full weight of the law. Our democracy cannot thrive if those entrusted with making laws are themselves victims or perpetrators of corrupt practices,” the group added.
