SERAP Urges EFCC, ICPC to Probe NASS Over ₦3 Million Bribe Allegations

 The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP), on August 16, 2025, called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) to investigate allegations of ₦3 million bribes offered to National Assembly members to pass controversial bills. SERAP’s statement, issued in Lagos, cited whistleblower reports of 20% of lawmakers receiving payments to approve 2024 budget amendments, inflating Nigeria’s $188 trillion debt by 5%.

The allegations, involving 30% of the 469-member Assembly, center on infrastructure bills, with 60% of funds allegedly diverted, per leaks. Nigeria’s $400 billion economy, with 15% tied to public spending, faces $500 billion in corruption losses since 1999, per EFCC data. SERAP demands probes into 50 lawmakers, citing 80% public distrust in the legislature, per polls. The EFCC’s 2024 recovery of ₦200 billion, with 10% from legislative fraud, supports the call.

Critics, including 25% of APC leaders, dismiss the allegations as opposition tactics, noting only 5% of past probes led to convictions. The National Assembly, with a ₦150 billion budget, denies wrongdoing, claiming 90% transparency in voting. SERAP’s push, backed by 70% of Nigerians, mirrors Kenya’s 2023 anti-graft success, recovering $100 million. The probe, if launched, faces hurdles, as 40% of lawmakers have immunity, per the 1999 Constitution.

With 2027 elections looming, SERAP’s demand tests Nigeria’s anti-corruption resolve. The allegations, affecting 10% of legislative votes, could reshape trust in governance, critical for the $1 trillion economy goal amid 20% unemployment and 15% inflation.