The House of Representatives is considering a landmark bill that would impose up to seven years in prison or a ₦5 million fine on anyone found guilty of giving or receiving bribes in the workplace.
Although the full text of the legislation is yet to be made public, the proposed bill is part of a broader effort to tighten Nigeria’s anti-corruption laws and enforce stricter ethical standards across both public and private sectors.
If passed, the bill will criminalize bribery within all workplace environments, extending beyond public institutions to include private companies—a move seen as essential in tackling Nigeria’s systemic corruption.
Strengthening Anti-Corruption Efforts
The bill is in line with the House’s recent push for reforms aimed at curbing unethical practices. Among other measures:
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Lawmakers have backed harsher penalties for officials who illegally award contracts.
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A new bill seeks to criminalize non-payment of salaries by employers.
These developments reflect growing public demand for accountability and transparency in both government and corporate environments.
Landmark Case Sets Precedent
The urgency of the new anti-bribery push echoes the January 2024 Supreme Court ruling that upheld a five-year prison sentence for ex-lawmaker Farouk Lawan, who was convicted of accepting a $500,000 bribe. The case remains one of Nigeria’s most notable anti-corruption convictions.
A Step Toward Ethical Work Culture
If enacted, the workplace bribery bill could become a turning point in reducing everyday corruption in Nigeria. Legal analysts say the bill will serve as a deterrent, especially in environments where bribery has become normalized.
The move also supports President Bola Tinubu’s broader governance agenda, which includes a focus on institutional reforms and economic accountability.
