The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has filed a lawsuit against the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, over allegations that lawmakers pay bribes of up to ₦3 million to sponsor or present motions, bills, and petitions in Nigeria’s National Assembly. The suit was filed last week at the Federal High Court in Abuja under case number FHC/L/CS/2214/2025.

The allegations came to public attention following a viral video in which Ibrahim Auyo, a member of the House of Representatives representing Jigawa State under the All Progressives Congress (APC), claimed that legislators pay between ₦1 million and ₦3 million to table legislative proposals. SERAP’s lawsuit accuses Akpabio and Abbas of failing to investigate and prosecute these claims, and seeks an order of mandamus compelling them to refer the allegations to appropriate anti-corruption agencies for investigation and prosecution.

In addition, SERAP calls for legal measures to protect Auyo, the whistleblower, citing the United Nations Convention against Corruption which Nigeria has ratified. The rights group argues that bribery in the National Assembly violates the constitutional oath of office by lawmakers and constitutes a grave breach of public trust.“

The allegations of ‘₦3 million Bribe-for-Bills’ make a mockery of the legislative process and seriously undermine Nigerians’ democratic rights,” SERAP’s lawyers stated. They emphasized that legislative duties and authority must be free from corruption and influence-peddling to foster trust in democratic institutions and strengthen the rule of law in Nigeria.

The lawsuit asserts that this bribery scandal is not only a violation of the Nigerian Constitution but also breaches Nigeria’s anti-corruption laws and its international obligations. SERAP argues that taking decisive legal action against these claims would demonstrate commitment to transparency and accountability within the legislature.

This case has reignited public discourse about corruption and accountability in Nigeria’s political institutions. Nigerians have expressed frustration over perceived impunity and lack of transparency involving public officials, particularly legislators, whose work directly affects governance and development.If the court grants SERAP’s request, it would mandate Akpabio and Abbas to either dismiss or refer to anti-corruption authorities for investigation the claims that undermine the integrity of Nigeria’s National Assembly. No hearing date has yet been set for this case.

In summary, SERAP’s legal action highlights urgent calls for clean governance and systemic reforms to restore Nigerians’ confidence in the legislative process. The outcome may set an important precedent for holding legislative leaders accountable and reinforcing the fight against corruption in the country.